Wikipedia definition of a Tree nut allergy:
a hypersensitivity to dietary substances from tree nuts causing an overreaction of the immune system, may lead to severe physical symptoms.[1] Tree nuts include almonds, Brazil nuts, cashews,chestnuts, filberts/hazelnuts, macadamia nuts, pecans, pistachios, pine nuts,[2] and walnuts.[note 1]
Tree nut allergy is distinct from peanut allergy, as peanuts are legumes, whereas a tree nut is a hard-shelled fruit.
People with tree nut allergy are seldom allergic to just one type of nut, and are therefore usually advised to avoid all tree nuts, even though an individual may not be allergic to all varieties of tree nuts. Someone allergic to walnuts or pecans may not have an allergy to cashews or pistachios, even though close biological relatives often share related allergenic proteins. The severity of the allergy varies from person to person, and exposure can increase sensitization. For those with a milder form of the allergy, a reaction which makes the throat feel like cotton may occur . The raw nut protein usually causes a more severe reaction than the oil, and extra roasting or processing can reduce the allergic reaction. Those diagnosed with anaphylaxis will have a more immediate mast cell reaction and be required to avoid all exposure to any allergen-containing products or byproducts, regardless of processing, as they are prone to even greater sensitivity. An allergy test or food challenge may be performed at an allergy clinic to determine the exact allergens. New immunotherapy treatments are being developed for tree nut allergy.
This allergy tends to be lifelong; recent studies have shown that only about 9% of children outgrow their tree nut allergy.[2]
Wikipedia definition of OIT: Oral immunotherapy (OIT) is a method of treatment for reducing negative or adverse reaction to allergens by oral administration of limited amounts of the allergen. OIT is currently under investigation as a treatment for a variety of common food allergies including peanuts, milk, and eggs. Studies involving OIT have shown desensitization towards the allergen.[1] However, there are still questions about longevity of tolerance after the study has ended.[2][3]
Course of treatment begins in a hospital or clinic, but can eventually be done at home. Many studies at first worked to reduce reaction due to accidental allergen exposure, but more studies are moving to get rid of adverse reaction completely. Though most patients experience mild symptoms on the first day, severe reaction is rare, occurring in <2% of subjects in each study.[1] However, almost every study has excluded patients with severe allergen-induced anaphylaxis.[4]
Our journey through OIT will begin on June 23rd under the direction of Dr. Chad Mayer. Dr. Mayer has successfully worked with many children and adults to desensitize their food allergy and thereby change the quality of life. We anticipate a future without constant worry and eating restrictions. We are concerned and anxious as we move toward the beginning of OIT as it means ingesting the very allergen that has triggered severe reactions and ended in the emergency room.
Follow us on our journey through OIT. It promises to be exciting and rewarding!
For more information about Dr. Chad Mayer and his approach to food allergies and OIT please visit his website at http://www.oitcenter.com/
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