The connections between allergies and skin disorders are profound and pervasive. Experts estimate that late atopic dermatitis (eczema triggered by allergic reaction) comprises roughly 30% of all skin disorder cases.1 In fact, skin rashes such as eczema and urticaria are among the most common symptoms of food allergy.2 In children, food allergies are cited as the root cause of dermatitis anywhere from about one-third to one-half of the time.1,3 This incidence has continued to rise over time -- with one researcher reporting a startling fivefold increase in the number of atopic dermatitis cases reported over the last 30 years.4

Why has the incidence of food-induced eczema risen so dramatically?

Food products most frequently incriminated in allergic reactions are now often hidden as ingredients in commercial foods.5 Many modern foods also contain preservatives, stabilizers, artificial colorings, and flavorings, as well as medicinal drugs such as penicillin. As one author of an article on urticaria and angioedema provoked by food additives notes, "There are literally thousands of agents added to the food that we consume...[with] estimates in the range of 2000-20,000."6

Other possible reasons for increased food hypersensitivity include: earlier weaning and earlier introduction of solid foods to infants;genetic manipulation of plants resulting in food components that cross-react with normal tissues;and less diversity in the average diet--leading to repeated exposure to food substances and the subsequent development of hypersensitivities.

Numerous clinical studies link elevated serum levels of the antibodies IgG and IgE with atopic dermatitis provoked by specific food allergens, thus underscoring their diagnostic significance.7-9 Diets aimed at eliminating consumption of known food allergens have shown to benefit many patients suffering from atopic eczema.10

To avoid the drawbacks associated with a comprehensive elimination diet, Great Smokies' Comprehensive Antibody Assessment can identify specific sensitivities to over 120 food and environmental substances, using IgE and IgG assays. Results can be used for a custom-tailored treatment designed to root out possible allergenic triggers of atopic dermatitis and other skin problems.

References:
1 Langeveld-Wildschut EG, van Ginkel CJ, Koers WJ, de Maat-Bleeker F, Felisu A, Bruijnzeel-Koomen CA. Immunology in medical practice. V. Constitutional eczema. [Dutch] Ned Tijdschr Geneeskd 1997;141(43):2055-2061.
2 Le Sellin J. Clinical signs of food allergy [French]. Allerg Immunol 1997;29 Spec No:11-14.
3 Sampson HA. Food hypersensitivity and dietary management in atopic dermatitis. Pediatr Dermatol 1992;9(4):376-379.
4 Bindslev-Jensen C, Brandrup F. Atopic dermatitis [Danish]. Ugeskr Laeger 1997;159(42):6199-6204.
5 Andre F, Andre C, Colin L, Cacaraci F, Cavagna S. Role of new allergens and of allergens consumption in the increased incidence of food sensitizations in France. Toxicology 1994;93(1):77-83.
6 Bosso JV, Simon, RA. Urticaria, Angioediema, and Anaphylaxis Provoked by Food Additives. In: Metcalfe D, Sampson HA, Simon RA, editors. Food Allergy: Adverse Reactions to Foods and Food Additives. Boston: Blackwell Scientific Publications, 1991;288-307.
7 Leung DY. Role of IgE in atopic dermatitis. Curr Opin Immunol 1993;5(6):956-962.
8 Sasamoto A, Saito S, Uchiyama H, Kishida M, Tago H, Koya N, et. al. Study of IgE.IgG4 antibodies on eczema in infants.II Clinical characteristics of infants with egg white. RAST 4+ [Japanese}. Arerugi 1991;40(11):1399-1406.
9 Shakib F, Brown HM, Phelps A, Redhead R. Study of IgG sub-class antibodies in patients with milk intolerance. Clin Allergy 1986;16(5):451-458.
10 Lever R, MacDonald D, Waugh P, Aitchison T. Randomized controlled trial of advice on an egg exclustion diet in young children with atopic eczema and sensitivity to eggs. Pediatr Allergy Immulol 1998;9(1):13-19.

Call to set up a nutritional consultation so that tests can be performed and a comprehensive strategy of lifestyle, dietary modification and nutrient supplementation can be implemented to aid you in reversing this disorder.

For an appointment, contact our office at: 800-956-7083 and visit our web site www.completehealthinstitute.com go to lab tests and click on appropriate test for information.

Dr. Rispoli, Ph.D., L Ac. has had a clinical practice for over 20 years. Her programs work because she is so thorough in testing and providing a nutritional approach. Remember that the body can heal itself if given the proper nutrients.

The information herein is not intended as diagnosis, treatment or a cure. Should you have a medical condition please seek the advice of your medical doctor.