The estimation of efficiency of diet therapy in atopic dermatitis and food allergy in children

Background. Clinical and immunological estimation of efficiency of different special formulas in children with atopic dermatitis due to food allergy. Methods. Fifty four children with atopic dermatitis aged 0,5—3 years old were examined. Children were divided into three groups on the base of their diet therapy. The 1 st group included 15 patients on the hypoallergenic milk-free diet, the 2 nd group (18 patients) was fed by goat milk formula, and the 3 rd group (21 children) was fed by special formula with high hydrolyzed protein. The dynamics of serum levels of IgE and IgG antibodies to cow milk protein and its fractions, and dynamics of cytokine levels (IL-4, IL-5, and IL-10) were measured during different types of diet therapy. Results. The positive skin changes during diet therapy included decrease of erythema, exudation and itching, gradual regression of rash. In 3 months of therapy complete clinical remission was achieved in 10 (66,7%) children in the 1 st group, in 14 (77,8%) children in the 2 nd group and in 15 (71,7%) children in the 3 rd group. The significant decrease of levels of IgG antibodies levels to cow milk protein and its fractions in children during different elimination diets was determined. The significant decrease of levels of specific IgE antibodies to cow milk protein (p<0,05) was registered only in children who were fed with goat milk formula; in children of other groups significant changes of this marker were not revealed. The significant decrease of IL-4 serum level was found in children of 2 nd group. Conclusion. The efficiency of diet therapy in children with atopic dermatitis depends on the correct choice of special food based on results of allergological examination.

atopic dermatitis, children, food allergy, diet therapy