Parents and GPs' understandings and beliefs about food allergy testing in children with eczema: qualitative interview study within the Trial of Eczema allergy Screening Tests (TEST) feasibility trial.

ABSTRACT:

Aim

To explore parent and general practitioner (GP) understanding and beliefs about food allergy testing for children with eczema.

Design and setting

Qualitative interview study in UK primary care within the Trial of Eczema allergy Screening Tests feasibility trial.

Participants

Semi-structured interviews with parents of children with eczema taking part in the feasibility study and GPs at practices hosting the study.

Results

21 parents and 11 GPs were interviewed. Parents discussed a range of potential causes for eczema, including a role for food allergy. They believed allergy testing to be beneficial as it could potentially identify a cure or help reduce symptoms and they found negative tests reassuring, suggesting to them that no dietary changes were needed.

SUBMITTER: Clement C 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7677338 | biostudies-literature | 2020 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature