Peanut allergy is a type of foo allergy, distinct from nut allergies. It is a hypersensitivity to dietary substances from peanuts causing an overreaction of the immune system which may lead to severe physical symptoms for millions of people. The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America estimates that peanut allergy is the most common cause of food-related death.. Prevalence among adults and children is similar — around 1% — but at least one study shows it to be on the rise in children. 25% of children with a peanut allergy outgrow it. It is usually treated with an exclusion diet and vigilant avoidance of foods that may be contaminated with whole peanuts or peanut particles and/or oils. The most severe peanut allergies can result in anaphylaxis, an emergency situation requiring immediate attention and treatment with epinephrine.