title: Factors predicting food allergy.
abstract: Prediction of food allergies has not been addressed systematically and to date studies have concentrated on prediction of allergic disorders in a general fashion. The current available data suggests that possibly the best predictor is the combined approach of taking into account the family history together with elevated cord blood IgE. Other indicators, such as cord blood lymphocyte responses and γ-interferon production at birth, are also discussed. Although preliminary studies seem to be promising, only studies of an unselected population with long term follow-ups will be able to show whether or not these possible predictors are of value.
authors.affiliation: Research and Development Support Unit, The David Hide Asthma and Allergy Research Centre, St. Mary's Hospital NHS Trust, Newport, Isle of Wight, UK.
authors.forename: T
authors.initials: T
authors.lastname: Dean