Pediatric Physician Alliance Announcements

Allergic diseases, such as hay fever, asthma and food allergies, often warrant finding out what is triggering the allergy to guide treatment. Most allergies result in the production of immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies that are specific to that allergen, which can be detected with in vitro tests or skin testing. A new clinical report from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), “Allergy Testing in Childhood: Using Allergen-Specific IgE Tests,” in the January 2012 Pediatrics, offers guidance for clinicians in using in vitro allergen-specific IgE testing. The report gives guidance to aid pediatricians in selecting the appropriate tests and interpreting the results in the context of a patient history and clinical presentation.

 

An influenza A (H1N1) virus that is known to circulate in U.S. swine but not humans has been detected in an adult in the state of Wisconsin. The patient reported occupational contact with swine prior to illness onset. No human-to-human transmission with this virus has been identified. CDC laboratory testing has confirmed that this is a new reassortant influenza A H1N1 virus as it has acquired the matrix [M] gene from the 2009 H1N1 pandemic virus. Laboratory testing shows that the virus is susceptible to the influenza antiviral medications, oseltamivir and zanamivir. Surveillance for additional human cases in the area has been enhanced. Providers are being asked to collect specimens for influenza virus testing from any patient presenting with influenza-like illness.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), in cooperation with the Triple Eight Distribution, Inc., of Port Washington, NY, has announced a voluntary recall of bicycle helmets for children and youth. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed. It is illegal to resell or attempt to resell a recalled consumer product.

The American Academy of Pediatrics offers the following information for parents who suspect their children may have allergies. Feel free to use parts or all of the information to create a hand-out for patients.