[Allergic diseases in childhood].

Natural exposure to allergens initiates an allergic inflammatory response in genetically disposed individuals. Allergic symptoms are associated with mucocutaneous sensitivity and production of allergen-specific IgE antibodies. Infections, environmental irritants and emotional factors also influence the clinical manifestation of allergic disease in childhood. Therefore mechanisms of specific and non-specific sensitivity must be considered and treated. For diagnostic purposes we have to prove the dose-related response to allergen exposure, as well as the participation of IgE-mediated disease. The patient's history, skin prick test and measurement of specific IgE in serum are reliable parameters. Successful treatment consists of avoidance to allergens, symptomatic medication to reduce the allergic inflammation and specific allergen immunotherapy. The use of hypoallergenic formulae in infancy have still to be investigated for their long-acting prophylactic efficacy.