A Proposed Framework for an Interdisciplinary Food Allergy Immunotherapy Program for Pediatric Patients Transitioning to Adult Care.

Abstract

Although established frameworks and guidelines are available to help transition pediatric patients successfully to adult care, patients receiving food allergy immunotherapy have a unique set of needs, and challenges that must be considered. We highlight these considerations for a research-based tertiary care center immunotherapy program. A proposed framework for an interdisciplinary food allergy immunotherapy team that includes not only pediatric allergists and nursing but also adult allergists, dietitians, researchers, and mental health team members working synergistically to address the needs of adolescents and young adults undergoing food allergy immunotherapy as they transition to adult care is presented. Collaborative frameworks such as the one proposed herein present a holistic strategy to transition pediatric patients undergoing food allergy immunotherapy to adult care. Future research activities within this framework will contribute invaluable insights into the broader landscape of food allergy management across the lifespan.