Abstract
ObjectivesA correct interpretation of sensitization to common allergens is critical in determining susceptibility to allergic diseases. The aim of this study was to investigate the patterns of sensitization to food and inhalant allergens, and their relation to the development of atopic diseases in early childhood.MethodsChildren aged 0 through 4 years from a birth cohort in the Prediction of Allergies in Taiwanese Children (PATCH) study were enrolled. Specific IgE antibody against food and inhalant allergens were measured and their association between total serum IgE levels and atopic diseases were assessed.ResultsA total of 182 children were regular followed up at clinics for a four-year follow-up period. The prevalence of food allergen sensitization increased markedly after 6 months of age, reaching up to 47% at 1.5 years of age and then declined significantly to 10% in parallel with a considerable increase in the prevalence of sensitization to inhalant allergens up to 25% at age 4. Food allergen sensitization appeared to be mainly associated with the elevation of serum total IgE levels before age 2. A combined sensitization to food and inhalant allergens had an additive effect on serum IgE levels after age 2, and was significantly associated with the risk of developing atopic diseases at age 4.ConclusionsSensitization to food occurs early in life, in parallel with the rising prevalence of sensitization to inhalant allergens at older age. A combined sensitization to food and inhalant allergens not only has an additive increase in serum IgE antibody production but also increases the risk of developing allergic respiratory diseases in early childhood.
Highlights
The prevalence of atopic diseases in childhood has significantly been increasing in the past few decades [1,2,3]
New born babies delivered at Chang Gung Memorial Hospital (CGMH), Keelung from October 1, 2007 to September 30, 2010 were recruited voluntarily and followed-up until the age of 4 years
Allergen-specific serum Immunoglobulin E (IgE) for food and inhalant allergens was measured at 6 months, and 1, 1.5, 2, 3 and 4 years of age during follow-up
Summary
The prevalence of atopic diseases in childhood has significantly been increasing in the past few decades [1,2,3]. As the prevalence of atopic diseases in the population increases, early identification of atopic children is desirable. Potential predictors for atopic diseases in childhood or later in life have been studied widely [4,5]. Sensitization to allergens has consistently been identified as a risk factor for developing allergic respiratory diseases [6]. Assessment of allergen sensitization is considered to be important in diagnosing and managing atopic diseases throughout childhood [7]. The interpretation of allergen sensitization and its clinical application in children sensitized to various allergens is challenging
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