Abstract
Exposure to microbial cell wall agents (MCWAs) has been related to the risk for atopy, otitis, and rhinitis. To relate domestic exposure to two important MCWAs-β-glucan and endotoxin-to the risk for otitis, rhinitis, atopy, and allergy in a sample of children from Singapore. Subjects (n=98) were recruited from July 2006 to December 2008. Blood samples were taken to determine nonspecific IgE and skin prick tests were performed. Dust samples were collected from the bedrooms of the subjects and analyzed for the content of β-glucan and endotoxin, using the Limulus method. Levels of IgE were significantly higher among children with rhinitis, and these children also had a larger proportion of atopics. There were no differences in β-glucan values between children with otitis, children with rhinitis, and controls. Endotoxin levels were lower in the homes of children with otitis, with a tendency for the levels to be lower in those with rhinitis. Among children with a high level of β-glucan, there was a higher proportion of those with high IgE values and atopy. The results suggest that a low level of endotoxin is a risk factor for otitis and that a high level of β-glucan is a risk factor for atopic sensitisation. Reactions to domestic indoor exposure are determined by several indoor agents and their relative exposure levels.
Highlights
The early childhood disease panorama is dominated by respiratory infections, rhinitis, and otitis
Levels of IgE were significantly higher among children with rhinitis, and these children had a larger proportion of atopics
There were no differences in b-glucan values between children with otitis, children with rhinitis, and controls
Summary
The early childhood disease panorama is dominated by respiratory infections, rhinitis, and otitis. There are numerous studies that demonstrate an influence of bacterial endotoxin (lipopolysaccharide; LPS) on atopy, allergic skin disease, and asthma [2,3,4,5,6]. Endotoxin as such causes an inflammatory response in the airways and has been shown to increase the frequency of wheeze and airways irritation among children as well as adults. Apart from endotoxin, the home environment comprises exposure to other MCWAs, b-glucan and chitin from mould cell walls. Exposure to microbial cell wall agents (MCWAs) has been related to the risk for atopy, otitis, and rhinitis
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
