Food Challenges
Food challenges with many types of foods can be performed in the office for the appropriately selected patient. A food challenge here is typically done in an open fashion. (The patient knows he/she is getting the food.) We give gradually increasing amounts of food at prescribed-time intervals while closely monitoring for any symptoms. A typical food challenge is usually performed in the morning and may take up to 4 to 5 hours. Blinded food challenges are also possible but considerable preparation and scheduling is required.
