About Food Protein-Induced Enterocolitis Syndrome

What is Food Protein-Induced Enterocolitis Syndrome?

Food Protein-Induced Enterocolitis Syndrome (FPIES) is a rare, non-IgE mediated food allergy that primarily affects the gastrointestinal tract. It is most commonly triggered by cow’s milk and soy, but can also be triggered by other foods such as rice, oat, barley, and chicken. Symptoms of FPIES include vomiting, diarrhea, dehydration, and lethargy. In severe cases, anaphylaxis can occur. Treatment typically involves avoidance of the trigger food and supportive care.

What are the symptoms of Food Protein-Induced Enterocolitis Syndrome?

The symptoms of Food Protein-Induced Enterocolitis Syndrome (FPIES) vary from person to person, but typically include vomiting, diarrhea, and dehydration. Other symptoms may include abdominal pain, lethargy, pale skin, and failure to gain weight. In severe cases, anaphylaxis may occur.

What are the causes of Food Protein-Induced Enterocolitis Syndrome?

Food Protein-Induced Enterocolitis Syndrome (FPIES) is an uncommon, non-IgE-mediated food allergy that primarily affects infants and young children. It is caused by an abnormal immune response to certain proteins found in food. Common triggers of FPIES include cow’s milk, soy, rice, oat, barley, and wheat. Other foods such as fish, eggs, and peanuts can also cause FPIES. The exact cause of FPIES is unknown, but it is believed to be related to an abnormal immune response to certain proteins in food.

What are the treatments for Food Protein-Induced Enterocolitis Syndrome?

1. Elimination Diet: The most important treatment for FPIES is to identify and eliminate the offending food from the diet. This means that the child must avoid eating the food that caused the reaction.

2. Nutritional Support: If the child is not able to eat enough food due to the elimination diet, nutritional support may be necessary. This may include tube feeding, intravenous nutrition, or a special formula.

3. Medications: In some cases, medications may be used to help manage symptoms. These may include antihistamines, steroids, and other medications.

4. Probiotics: Probiotics may be used to help restore the balance of bacteria in the gut.

5. Allergy Testing: Allergy testing may be done to help identify the food that is causing the reaction. This can help guide the elimination diet.

What are the risk factors for Food Protein-Induced Enterocolitis Syndrome?

1. Age: FPIES is most commonly seen in infants and young children, although it can occur in adults.

2. Family history: A family history of FPIES or other food allergies may increase the risk of developing FPIES.

3. Exposure to certain foods: Certain foods, such as cow’s milk, soy, and grains, are more likely to cause FPIES than others.

4. Exposure to antibiotics: Antibiotics may increase the risk of developing FPIES.

5. Exposure to environmental allergens: Exposure to environmental allergens, such as dust mites, may increase the risk of developing FPIES.

Is there a cure/medications for Food Protein-Induced Enterocolitis Syndrome?

Yes, there are treatments available for Food Protein-Induced Enterocolitis Syndrome (FPIES). Treatment typically involves avoiding the food that triggers the reaction and providing supportive care, such as fluids and medications to reduce symptoms. In some cases, medications such as antihistamines, steroids, and epinephrine may be used to reduce the severity of the reaction. In severe cases, an intravenous (IV) line may be needed to provide fluids and medications.