Food Allergy Management at School in the Era of Immunotherapy.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Food allergy is increasing in prevalence, and management focuses on strict avoidance of known allergens and appropriately treating reactions. Any reaction has the potential to result in anaphylaxis, which can be fatal. Children spend a significant amount of time in the childcare or school setting, and interactions between families, school personnel, and clinicians are important to ensure the health and safety of children with allergies and asthma. RECENT FINDINGS: This review examines current food allergy guidelines and legislation, an assessment of allergen-free schools, the importance of written anaphylaxis action plans, training and education of school personnel, emerging treatment options, and the social implications of having food allergies. As the clinical use and research into food allergen immunotherapy continues to expand, an additional level of education and management is required of school personnel and caregivers. Food allergy has both medical and social implications, which are magnified in the school setting.

Role of behavioral health in management of pediatric atopic dermatitis.

OBJECTIVE: To describe the behavioral components and complications in treating pediatric patients with atopic dermatitis (AD) and the critical role of behavioral health professionals in addressing disease impact and behavioral aspects of disease management for these patients and families. DATA SOURCES: Studies and review articles were selected from medical and psychology databases for relevance to pertinent topics. RESULTS: AD has significant negative effects in affected individuals and their families on quality of life, behavioral, emotional, and sleep disturbances, and family functioning. Effective treatment strategies for AD are available, but the challenges for children and parents in coping with disease-related concerns and in following through with the multiple aspects of treatment are considerable. A biopsychosocial model, which incorporates the interplay among biological, psychological, and social dimensions of medical care, can be implemented in various treatment settings to achieve an integrated medical and behavioral health care approach. By sharing a family orientation, using a stress and coping model, and taking into account children's developmental capabilities and concerns, medical and behavioral health care providers are equipped to bring an in-depth understanding and different evidence-based therapeutic tools to address emotional, behavioral, and interpersonal challenges imposed by moderate to severe AD in children and families. CONCLUSION: Behavioral health and medical providers working together to provide integrated care play a critical role in helping children and families cope with the burdens imposed by AD, successfully manage the disease, and achieve optimal quality of life for affected children and their families.