The Basophil Activation Test as a Diagnostic Tool in Pediatric Food Allergy

Evaluation of Technical and Predictive Value of the Basophil Activation Test for Food Allergy Diagnosis in Children

Background: The need for an oral food challenge (OFC) surrogate is growing in line with the continuous increase in the prevalence and severity of paediatric food allergy. The basophil activation test (BAT) has recently been reported as a promising tool for predicting the outcome of OFC in children.

Objective: We make the hypothesis that BAT might improve the sensitivity of food allergy diagnosis and spare part of current OFC in paediatric patients attending allergy departments in Marseille APHM University hospitals.

Methods: BAT will be performed in parallel with OFC in 100 paediatric patients receiving OFC during a diagnostic or follow-up procedure.

Expected results: Good concordance of BAT and OFC results leading to potential OFC replacement by BAT in at least 50% of the study population

Inclusion Criteria:

• Age 0 - 18 years
• Attending La Timone Paediatric Hospital for OFC
• Social insurance
• Parents and if possible child have received information and signed the consent form

Exclusion Criteria:

• Patients not receiving an OFC
• Lack of social insurance
• Inability to understand the study information
• Unwilling to participate