Food Allergies vs. Sensitivities: Clinical Distinctions

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Clinical Comparison

Characteristic Food Allergy Food Sensitivity
Immune Response IgE-mediated Non-IgE-mediated
Onset Time Minutes to 2 hours Up to 72 hours
Severity Can be life-threatening Generally mild to moderate
Threshold Trace amounts Dose-dependent
Source: Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, 2023

Diagnostic Accuracy

Allergy Testing

  • Skin Prick Test: 96% sensitivity, 85% specificity - Allergy, 78(2)
  • Specific IgE: 87% sensitivity, 97% specificity - Clinical & Experimental Allergy, 53(4)

Sensitivity Testing

  • Elimination Diet: 77% accuracy rate - Nutrients, 15(3)

Symptom Profile

Allergy Symptoms

  • Anaphylaxis (0.1-15%)
  • Hives (45-80%)
  • Respiratory issues (20-40%)
  • Angioedema (15-30%)

Sensitivity Symptoms

  • Bloating (60-75%)
  • GI distress (40-60%)
  • Headaches (30-45%)
  • Fatigue (25-40%)
Source: World Allergy Organization Journal, 2023

Management Strategies

  • Avoidance Study (2023): 98% reduction in allergic reactions with strict avoidance - Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology: In Practice, 11(4)
  • Threshold Study (2022): 83% of sensitivity patients improved with dose modification - Clinical Nutrition, 41(8)