Egg Allergy

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of egg allergy involves a series of steps your healthcare professional takes to confirm whether eggs are responsible for your or your child’s allergic reactions. The process also helps rule out other possible conditions, such as food intolerance, which occurs when the gut struggles to digest certain foods or ingredients. Unlike an allergy, food intolerance doesn’t involve the immune system and is typically less severe.

Your healthcare professional will begin by reviewing your or your child’s medical history and conducting a physical examination. Depending on the symptoms and their severity, one or more of the following tests may be recommended:

• Skin prick test: A small amount of egg protein is placed on the skin, which is then pricked lightly. If an allergic reaction occurs, a raised, itchy bump (hive) appears. This test is best administered and interpreted by an allergy specialist.

• Blood test: This test measures the immune system’s response to egg proteins by checking for specific antibodies (IgE) that indicate an allergic reaction.

• Food challenge: Conducted under strict medical supervision, small amounts of egg are given in increasing doses to observe for allergic reactions. Because this test carries the risk of a severe reaction, it should only be done by an allergy specialist.

• Food tracking or elimination diet: You may be asked to keep a detailed food diary or remove eggs and other suspect foods from the diet temporarily to determine if symptoms improve. This helps identify food triggers more accurately.

Treatment

The treatment for egg allergy focuses on preventing allergic reactions and managing symptoms when exposure occurs.

• Avoiding eggs and egg products: The only sure way to prevent allergic reactions is to completely avoid foods containing eggs. However, some people with egg allergies can safely eat foods with well-cooked or baked eggs, as heat can alter the allergenic proteins. Always consult your healthcare provider before trying this.

• Medicines for mild reactions: Antihistamines can help relieve mild symptoms such as itching, hives, or nasal congestion after accidental exposure. However, they do not prevent or treat anaphylaxis.

• Emergency epinephrine: For severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis), carrying an epinephrine autoinjector (such as EpiPen) is essential. It should be used immediately if symptoms like difficulty breathing, throat swelling, or dizziness occur.

  • Learn how to properly use the autoinjector.

  • Ensure caregivers and teachers know how to use it for children.

  • Replace the device before its expiration date.

Most children outgrow egg allergy as they get older. Your child’s healthcare team can recommend how often to retest for allergy status. Never attempt to test your child’s reaction to eggs at home, especially if they have had a serious allergic reaction before.