Diagnosis and assessment of food allergy in children and young people: summary of NICE guidance

Abstract

Food allergies, defined as an immune response to food proteins, affect as many as 8% of young children and 2% of adults in westernised countries, and their prevalence seems to be rising, as does the prevalence of all allergic diseases.1 Correct diagnosis of food allergy in children and young people is essential to reduce the incidence of adverse reactions that result from true food allergies that are missed, and to reduce cases of unnecessary treatment after an incorrect diagnosis. This article summarises the most recent recommendations from the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) on the diagnosis and assessment of food allergy in children and young people in primary care and community settings.2 NICE recommendations are based on systematic reviews of best available evidence and explicit consideration of cost effectiveness. When minimal evidence is available, recommendations are based on the Guideline Development Group’s experience and opinion of what constitutes good practice. Evidence levels for the recommendations are given in italic in square brackets. ### Assessment and allergy focused clinical history