Khaberni - A recent American study has shown that about one child in every 50 is born with a food allergy to peanuts that could potentially be fatal, raising concerns among many families.
The study revealed that the use of the peanut patch, known as epicutaneous immunotherapy (EPIT), could help young children build a safe tolerance to peanuts over several years.
According to the long-term study results, more than 70% of the participating children were able to consume three or four peanuts by the end of the treatment period.
Dr. Matthew Greenhawt, the study's lead researcher, explained: “It is important that the treatment demonstrated a strong safety record, with no cases of allergic shock related to the treatment recorded in the third year. Skin irritation at the patch site, the most common side effect, became less frequent over time."
Patch operation mechanism
The patch, known as the Viaskin Peanut Patch, works by delivering small amounts of peanut protein through the skin, aiming to train the immune system to recognize and naturally deal with peanuts, thereby reducing the risk of severe allergic reactions from accidental exposure.
Gradual and sustained improvement for children
The study focused on children who initially received a placebo treatment, then used the peanut patch for up to three years. It was found that most children showed significant improvement compared to the first year, as their reactions during food challenges became less severe, and about half of them were able to tolerate more than three or four peanuts.
The importance of early intervention
Dr. Greenhawt pointed out that “the ongoing treatment continues to improve tolerance and remains safe, giving parents greater peace of mind regarding the risk of severe allergies. Growing evidence suggests that early intervention could alter the course of peanut allergy in children."
The results align with a previous study at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, which showed that children who gradually increased amounts of peanut butter had higher and more sustainable tolerance rates compared to those who avoided peanuts entirely. After 18 months, all children in the incremental consumption group were able to eat an amount equivalent to three tablespoons of peanut butter, while only 21% of children in the avoidance group reached the same level of tolerance.
Warning for parents
The researchers emphasized the need not to attempt any form of graded sensitization to peanuts at home and the necessity of discussing all new treatment options with a qualified allergy specialist.
