Food protein-induced enterocolitis syndrome: Healthcare utilization and referral patterns among a pediatric cohort

Abstract

BackgroundFood protein–induced enterocolitis syndrome (FPIES) is a non-IgE mediated food allergy characterized by delayed, repetitive vomiting. FPIES is improving in recognition; however, there remains a lag in diagnosis. This study aimed to further explore this lag, as well as referral patterns and healthcare utilization, to help determine areas for earlier recognition.MethodsA retrospective chart review of pediatric FPIES patients at two hospital systems in New York was completed. Charts were reviewed for FPIES episodes and healthcare visits prior to diagnosis, and reason/source of referral to an allergist. A cohort of patients with IgE-mediated food allergy was reviewed for comparison of demographics and the time to the diagnosis.ResultsIn total, 110 patients with FPIES were identified. The median time to diagnosis was 3 months, vs. 2 months in IgE-mediated food allergy (p < 0.05). Most referrals were from the pediatrician (68%) or gastroenterology (28%), none were from the ED. The most common reason for referral was concern of IgE-mediated allergy (51%), followed by FPIES (35%). There was a statistically significant difference in race/ethnicity between the FPIES cohort and IgE-mediated food allergy group (p < 0.0001), with a greater proportion of Caucasian patients in FPIES vs. IgE-mediated food allergy cohort.ConclusionThis study demonstrates a lag in the diagnosis of FPIES and a lack of recognition outside of the allergy community, as only one-third of patients were considered to have FPIES prior to an allergy evaluation.