Focus on Allergy

Wheat, eggs, milk, peanuts and other nuts, soybeans and seafood: all of these can be an integral part of a balanced, healthy diet for growing children. Instead, many are off-limits for an increasing number of children diagnosed with food allergies. Though the rise in food allergies is certainly worrisome, we're learning that some food allergies may actually be misdiagnosed. Host Dr. Jennifer Shu welcomes Dr. David Fleischer, assistant professor of pediatrics at the University of Colorado School of Medicine and National Jewish Health in Denver, for a conversation about how we can improve our capacity to accurately assess food allergies, and help many of our young patients tolerate, or even enjoy, a wider range of food. Starting with a clinical history, what kind of workup should be done before patients are referred to an allergist? How should allergen-specific antibody blood tests be incorporated into this process?

Asthma remains a difficult disease to treat and control, with a large portion of the patient population not receiving adequate treatment options. But next-generation therapies are targeting this inflammation by being more targeted, getting at the root of the pathways that play a larger role in the disease. Bob Baltera, chief executive officer of Amira Pharmaceuticals, tells host Bruce Japsen about developments in more targeted therapies.

Is there evidence that suggests corticosteroids used to treat asthma might affect growth? Are growth effects from using inhaled or intranasal steroids to control asthma or allergic rhinitis a significant concern? Dr. David Skoner, professor of pediatrics at the Drexel University College of Medicine, discusses the challenges of evaluating the systemic effects of these medications, and suggests what physicians can do to minimize the risk of growth effects when using corticosteroids. Dr. Ketan Sheth hosts.

In what populations is asthma becoming more prevalent, and is asthma becoming a significant public health issue? How can physicians better care for under-served communities with a prevalence of asthma? Dr. Michael Foggs, chief of allergy, asthma, and immunology at Advocate Health Centers, discusses the impact of asthma on under-served communities, and how physicians can be mindful of related socioeconomic issues. Hosted by Dr. Ketan Sheth.

Diagnostic tests can sometimes get to patients too late but technology is changing to treat patients early, particularly for respiratory problems and infectious diseases. Dr. Gian Han, director of Diatherex Laboratories, tells host Bruce Japsen about the diagnostic industry's progress in testing for respiratory diseases and superbugs via the latest in research and technology in molecular generics.

Indoor allergens can exacerbate or trigger allergic or asthmatic responses. What effect do carpeting, cleaning solutions, pets, and humidifiers have on indoor environments? Dr. James Sublett, clinical professor and section chief of pediatric allergy at the University of Louisville School of Medicine, offers tips on creating safer homes for patients with allergies. Dr. Todd Mahr hosts.

How does a food allergy diagnosis impact a patient's quality of life? What can physicians do to help patients cope with food allergies? Host Dr. Todd Mahr asks Anne Muñoz-Furlong, founder and CEO of the Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Network, about the challenges facing patients with food allergies. How can physicians and families navigate the management of a toddler or teenager with food allergies?

What are the scenarios that characterize anaphylaxis, according to the National Institute of Health? Dr. Richard Nicklas, clinical professor of medicine at George Washington University Medical Center, discusses the manifestations of anaphylaxis and how physicians can best manage patients with a history of anaphylaxis. Dr. Ketan Sheth hosts.

One of the most common and frequently misdiagnosed eosinophilic gastrointestinal diseases is eosinophilic esophagitis. When should a physician suspect eosinophilic esophagitis, and how can it be accurately diagnosed? How significant a factor is diet in such disorders? Dr. Jonathan Spergel, associate professor of pediatrics at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, delves into the potential causes of eosinophilic gastrointestinal diseases with host Dr. Todd Mahr.