Question 1

Which food allergies in children may be outgrown in the first decade of life? (Select all that apply.)&#10;A) Egg allergy&#10;B) Fish allergy&#10;C) Milk allergy&#10;D) Nut allergy&#10;E) Shell fish allergy

Accepted Answer

Children can outgrow certain food allergies, particularly egg and milk allergies, often by the time they reach their teenage years. These allergies are more commonly outgrown than allergies to nuts, fish, and shellfish, which tend to be lifelong.

Question 2

Which immunoglobulin is responsible for initiating the allergic cascade in susceptible individuals who are exposed to allergens?&#10;A) IgG&#10;B) IgA&#10;C) IgM&#10;D) IgE

Accepted Answer

IgE is the immunoglobulin responsible for initiating the allergic cascade in susceptible individuals who are exposed to allergens. It binds to allergens and triggers the release of histamine and other inflammatory mediators, leading to the symptoms of an allergic reaction.

Question 3

When performing diagnostic tests to determine which environmental allergens cause symptoms in an atopic patient, which aspects of scratch testing are preferable to other methods? (Select all that apply.)

A) It has a lower potential for anaphylaxis.
B) It is more sensitive.
C) It is safer.
D) It produces more rapid results.
E) It requires a stepwise approach.

A, C, D

Accepted Answer

Scratch testing, also known as skin prick testing, is generally considered to have a lower potential for anaphylaxis compared to other methods such as intradermal testing because the allergen is not injected into the skin but rather introduced on the surface. It is considered safer for the same reason, as the risk of systemic reactions is minimized. Additionally, scratch testing produces results more rapidly, often within 15-20 minutes, allowing for immediate interpretation by the healthcare provider.

Deck 28: Environmental and Food Allergies