Food allergy occurs in 1.5% to 6% of the population. However, confirmi
ng the diagnosis of food allergic disorders is often difficult because
of the lack of reliable, convenient testing and our incomplete unders
tanding of the underlying pathophysiology. Several recent studies have
expanded the knowledge regarding the pathophysiology and diagnosis of
food allergy. Rodent models have elucidated several mechanisms of mas
t cell-mediated responses and antigen transport. Although it had been
suggested that certain allergic disorders have a genetic predispositio
n, investigators are now identifying genomic mutations associated with
specific atopic conditions in humans. A novel endoscopic method may p
rovide insight into diagnosis, as well as pathophysiology of allergic
disorders.