Eczema and multiple food allergies

Posted: 22nd January 2026 | Posted by allergy

The study analysed data from 1,309 children under 12 with physician-diagnosed food allergies (FA). Its goal was to understand how the presence and timing of atopic dermatitis (AD or eczema) relate to FA outcomes. It found that 77% of children with FA had a history of AD, with over 80% of those developing AD in their first year. A key discovery was that the earlier the eczema began, the higher the risk for multiple food allergies. Specifically, children whose AD started after 12 months had 43% lower odds of having multiple FAs compared to those with onset between 1-3 months. Early-onset AD was also strongly linked to allergies to milk and eggs.

Conversely, the research revealed a different pattern for respiratory allergies. Late-onset AD (after 12 months) was associated with significantly higher odds of developing asthma and allergic rhinitis. The authors concluded that early-onset AD is a distinct risk factor for multiple food allergies and sensitivities to specific foods like milk and egg. This makes the age of eczema onset a valuable clinical clue, helping to identify children who may benefit from closer monitoring, early allergist consultation, and guidance on evidence-based FA prevention strategies.

Reference: Hussien H, Moore DL, Nimri S, et al. The age of eczema onset and multiple food allergies. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol. Published online December 3, 2025. doi:10.1016/j.anai.2025.12.001