Allergic Diathesis

Allergic diathesis is a constitutional anomaly, which manifests itself in a predisposition to allergic diseases. Some researchers identify allergic and exudative-catarrhal diathesis, while others believe that exudative-catarrhal diathesis is a manifestation of allergic diathesis.

One of the features of allergic diathesis is a change in immuno-metabolic tolerance to antigens and biologically active substances. At the same time, a predisposition to allergies clinically manifests itself only when exposed to unfavorable environmental factors. Among allergic conditions in children, especially young children, food allergies are the most common. Less common are drug, inhalation and infectious allergies.

Clinical manifestations of allergic diathesis can be extremely varied. Children may experience skin, gastrointestinal, respiratory and combined (dermatorespiratory, dermatointestinal) manifestations, as well as damage to the nervous and cardiovascular systems, and thermoregulation disorders. Hidden markers of allergic diathesis include: genetically determined hyperproduction of IgE; deficiency of IgG2 blocking reagins; deficiency of T-suppressors that inhibit the synthesis of reagins, as well as a decrease in their functional activity; transient or permanent deficiency of secretory IgA; eosinophilia; instability of tryptophan metabolism; increasing the relative content of polyunsaturated fatty acids, in particular arachidonic acid, in the lipid structures of cell membranes; decreased sensitivity of a-adrenergic receptors; positive tests with non-bacterial allergens; positive family allergy history; vagotonic orientation of vegetative homeostasis.

To diagnose allergic diathesis, it is necessary to analyze the genealogical history, the presence of clinical manifestations of allergic diseases in the child, as well as the results of an allergological examination.

Treatment of allergic manifestations includes etiotropic specific therapy with the exclusion of causally significant allergens and specific hyposensitization, as well as symptomatic therapy aimed at reducing allergy manifestations. It is also important to take preventative measures to strengthen the immune system, including eating right, exercising, and building mental resilience.

In case of food allergies, it is necessary to carry out diet therapy, excluding foods that cause an allergic reaction from the diet. In case of drug allergies, it is necessary to immediately stop taking the allergenic drug and carry out symptomatic therapy.

It is important to remember that allergic diathesis is a chronic disease that requires long-term treatment and prevention. With timely and correct treatment, it is possible to achieve stable remission and reduce the risk of developing severe complications.