Pediatric Allergies

Pediatric allergy testing information for providers

Understanding the “allergy march”

Clinical studies have shown that young children who develop atopic dermatitis^2,3 or allergic rhinitis^2,4,5 have an increased tendency to develop asthma and/or other allergic conditions as they grow older.

The progressive development of increasingly debilitating disease as an atopic child grows into adulthood has been referred to by some researchers as the “allergy march.”

Early intervention may help improve the child’s symptoms and may reduce the chances of developing asthma in the future.^3,4,5

The role of blood-based allergy testing

Blood-based allergen-specific IgE testing can be useful in assessing the potential that an atopic disposition might play in fostering chronic sinusitis or dermatitis and potentially asthma, thereby allowing the clinician to develop an optimal therapeutic approach at an early age.

Childhood allergies: Information for parents

Any child can develop allergies and the symptoms can include⁶:

• A skin rash or hives
• Wheezing or difficulty breathing (asthma)
• Sneezing, coughing, a runny nose or itchy eyes
• An upset stomach

It’s difficult to know if an allergen—such as dust, mold, furry animals, or certain foods—is triggering these allergic symptoms in your child. 

The first step is to schedule an appointment with your child’s pediatrician and ask if blood-based allergen-specific IgE testing can help provide answers.

As a safe, fairly quick procedure with minimal risk, a blood test along with a medical exam and history of symptoms can give your child’s pediatrician more information to make a plan that might include:

• Controlling allergy symptoms
• Eliminating or reducing allergy triggers
• Prescribing medication
• Referring to a specialist for additional testing

Get the answers you need for your child’s health.