Casebook: Food allergy and testing

Consultant paediatrician Dr Thisanayagam Umasunthar and consultant in paediatric allergy Dr Robert Boyle explain evidence-based approaches to food allergy and testing in primary care, including accurate diagnosis of cow’s milk allergy, management of Pollen Food Syndrome, when testing is appropriate in primary care and identifying and managing anaphylaxis

Note that all cases in this module are hypothetical scenarios developed for illustrative purposes only

Learning objectives

This module will enhance your knowledge of the management of food allergy and testing, including:

• Accurately diagnosing cow’s milk allergy in infants and avoiding overdiagnosis.
• Recognising Pollen Food Syndrome triggers and managing symptoms appropriately.
• Understanding when and how to use allergy testing in food allergy cases.
• Identifying clinical features of a true anaphylactic reaction.
• Applying appropriate criteria for prescribing adrenaline auto-injectors.

Published: 31.07.2025

Authors: Dr Thisanayagam Umasunthar is consultant paediatrician at Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust and Dr Robert Boyle is consultant in paediatric allergy at Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London