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What is New in the Diagnosis and Management of Food Protein-Induced Enterocolitis Syndrome?

  • Allergy (D Campbell, Section Editor)
  • Published:
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Abstract

Purpose of Review

Many aspects of food protein-induced enterocolitis syndrome (FPIES) remain poorly studied, such as its pathophysiology, dietary management, biomarkers for diagnosis and onset of tolerance. Research in the last decade has steadily advanced our knowledge of the condition. We review the recent literature in relation to the diagnosis and management of FPIES.

Recent Findings

FPIES is predominantly a paediatric non-IgE-mediated gastrointestinal food allergic disorder. Infants typically present with delayed profuse vomiting, pallor and floppiness 2–4 h after ingesting a newly introduced food. Some cases can be severe, with associated impaired consciousness, hypotension and/or hypothermia. Common triggers include cow’s milk, soy, rice and egg. The prognosis of the condition is generally excellent, with most outgrowing the condition by early childhood. Recent studies elucidate epidemiological variations, which have aided the development of upcoming international consensus guidelines on the diagnosis and management of FPIES.

Summary

Much remains to be understood about FPIES. Current and upcoming research along with efforts to form consensus-based guidelines will help clinicians in diagnosing acute FPIES from other more common paediatric conditions.

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Papers of particular interest, published recently, have been highlighted as: • Of importance •• Of major importance

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Allergy and Immunology, Children’s Hospital at Westmead, Sydney, Australia

    Eric Lee & Sam Mehr

  2. The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia

    Eric Lee

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Correspondence to Sam Mehr.

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Lee, E., Mehr, S. What is New in the Diagnosis and Management of Food Protein-Induced Enterocolitis Syndrome?. Curr Pediatr Rep 4, 138–146 (2016). https://doi.org/10.1007/s40124-016-0107-2

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