New Treatment Helps Toddlers Build Tolerance to Deadly Allergies
A major breakthrough has been achieved with a treatment that could help toddlers develop tolerance to a common and potentially fatal allergy. Researchers have introduced a new method that may benefit many individuals suffering from peanut allergies using a simple patch.
The Viaskin Peanut Patch
This treatment delivers small amounts of peanut protein through the skin. American scientists reported that over 70% of participants were able to tolerate three to four peanuts after completing a three-year course of treatment.
Study Results and Impact
The long-term research focused on toddlers born with peanut allergies, affecting approximately one in 50 children. The treatment, known as epicutaneous immunotherapy (EPIT), demonstrated its ability to safely build peanut tolerance over three years.
The goal of the Viaskin Peanut Patch is to train the immune system to tolerate peanut exposure and reduce the risk of severe allergic reactions from accidental ingestion.
The recent analysis included toddlers who initially received a placebo in an earlier one-year study, then used the peanut patch for up to three years, confirming the patch’s effectiveness.
Summary
This treatment offers new hope for families dealing with peanut allergies, potentially reducing life-threatening reactions through a non-invasive, long-term immunotherapy.
Author's summary: The Viaskin Peanut Patch shows promise in helping toddlers build safe tolerance to peanut allergies, providing hope for effective long-term allergy management.