Atopie maternelle et sensibilisation précoce. Rôle du lait maternel

Abstract

Fetuses are exposed to allergens during intrauterine period. Neonates T cells are capable of proliferating in vitro in response to both foods and inhalants allergens. This suggest that the initial allergen-specific T cell priming may occur in utero as the result of transplacental transfer of small amounts of the relevant allergens to which mothers are exposed during pregnancy. Response to allergens may appear during the 22nd week of gestation. Recently, mites antigens have been found in the amniotic fluid and in more quantities in both mother’s and neonate’s blood. During allergic sensitization and the establishment of atopic disease in childhood, the cytokine profile as detected at birth gradually shifts to a Th2 cytokine profile which was suggested in utero to be important for a successful pregnancy. Human milk contains numerous components that protect the infant against infections. Probiotics may have also a protective effect, as some other factors which may justify “ the hygienist hypothesis”.