Researchers in the UK found that peanut allergies are being improperly diagnosed, in some cases, due to faults in standardized tests. A new test is being developed that will more accurately determine whether you are allergic to peanuts or not.
A standard test for peanut allergy involves pricking the skin with a small about of peanut protein. If redness, a welt, or other reaction occurs once pricked, the patient will be deemed to have a peanut allergy. Some doctors will further this test up with a blood test to check for IgE levels. These tests certainly show whether a person has a sensitivity to peanuts, but there is question as to whether they determine a true peanut allergy.
A study done at the University of Manchester and published in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology showed that using the standard skin-prick test, 78 of 100 children would have been misdiagnosed as allergic to peanuts. This is a huge number and a surprising finding. Researchers responded by developing an alternative test that looks promising in providing more accurate results. According to an article by Reuters in January, these new tests look for a specific peanut protein called Ara h 2. They believe that finding this protein will separate those whom are simply sensitive to peanuts from those whom are truly allergic to peanuts.
What you can do?
If you or your child has a natural aversion to peanuts, doesn't like the smell and wants to avoid them, this is a good first sign that you may be dealing with an allergy. Get tested. If you already have been tested and confirmed with a mild peanut allergy, continue avoiding peanuts. However, you should consider talking to your allergist about the availability of alternative tests for peanut sensitivity. New and better testing is becoming available, keep an open dialog with your doctor and stay tuned.
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