First IgE-Mediated Food Allergy Mapping in Algiers- Algeria: Clinical and Age-Specific Profiles

Background and aim: Despite the increasing prevalence of food allergies worldwide, Algeria remains severely underrepresented in WHO/FAO epidemiological databases, hampering evidence-based policymaking and harmonization of labeling protocols. This study addresses this gap and presents the first analysis of IgE-mediated food sensitization in Algiers (Algeria). Materials and methods: Sensitization to 29 food allergens was assessed in a cohort of 637 patients (2016-2019) using the Allergy-Screen® immunoassay (Mediwiss Analytic GmbH). Clinical and epidemiological datasets were statistically analyzed with two-way ANOVA and Tukey’s HSD test to determine significant sensitization patterns. Results: Among the participants, 37.67% (n = 240) experienced sensitization to ≥ 1 allergen, with cow's milk F2 (12.56%), egg white F1 (5.5%), peanut F13 (4.7%), and shrimp F24 (4.55%) being the dominant triggers. Age-stratified analysis revealed significant disparities (p < 0.001): cow's milk allergy predominated in children (≤ 16 years), while shrimp sensitization peaked in adults (> 16 years). Sex-specific trends highlighted elevated sensitization in women ≤ 16 years versus > 16 years (p < 0.001) and men ≤ 16 years versus ≥ 40 years (p < 0.01), highlighting that age is a determining factor in allergic risk. Polysensitization was common, complicating the clinical management of atopic individuals. Conclusion: As Algeria’s first epidemiological mapping, this study delivers foundational data imperative for evidence-based allergy management, diagnostic refinement, and national food safety policy in alignment with global priorities