T07012, T07013 and T07014: Investigation of cross-reactivities towards peanut and other nuts in relation to the age of the allergic individuals
Monday 4 November 2002
These research projects aim to find out whether age is related to the development of allergy to more than one type of nut.
Study Duration: August 1999 to July 2001
Contractor: St Mary's Hospital, Manchester, Whithington Hospital, Manchester and Central Science Laboratory
Background
Children generally develop allergies to single nuts (usually peanuts), while adults tend to develop allergy to several types of nuts. This study aimed to find out why, in particular, whether there is an age-effect in the development of allergy to more than one nut.
Results and findings
The results suggested to the researchers that nut allergy does not start in childhood with allergy to one nut species and then broaden. There is a range of different nut allergies in the population and across the ages, and exactly when the allergy is manifest as a reaction simply depends on when the individual first eats the nut.
Dissemination information
Project completed: final report is available from the FSA Library and Information centre. To obtain a copy, please contact the Enquiry Desk, Dr Elsie Widdowson Library and Information Services, Food Standards Agency (020 7276 8181/8182 or at library&info@foodstandards.gsi.gov.uk).
Lees, M., Sharp, A., Summers, C., Pumphrey, R., Hird, H., Reece, P., Wilson, P. (2001) Investigation of peanut cross-reactivities in multiple nut sensitive individuals. Presented at the 8th International Symposium on Immunological, Chemical and Clinical Problems of Food Allergy. Venice.
Contact: Dr Joelle Buck
Tel: 020 7276 8516
Email: joelle.buck@foodstandards.gsi.gov.uk