Risk Factors for Infantile Allergic Disease

Background: The pathogenic mechanisms of atopic dermatitis (AD) and recurrent wheezing (RW) during infancy are not fully understood. Objective: We evaluated immunological markers associated with AD and RW during infancy. Methods: We followed a cohort (n=314) from birth to 14 months of age. Some of the participants underwent a physical examination and blood test at 6 and 14 months of age. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis and receiver operating characteristic curve analysis were performed to fi nd which immunological markers could be risk factors for AD and RW. Results: Of 16 immunological markers found in cord blood, only immunoglobulin (Ig) E was associated with AD at 6 months of age (adjusted OR [aOR], 1.607). None of the markers was associated with AD or RW at 14 months of age. Of 23 immunological markers at 6 months of age, total IgE (aOR, 1.018) and sensitization to egg white (aOR, 23.246) were associated with AD at 14 months of age. Phytohemagglutinin (PHA)–induced production of interleukin (IL) 4 from peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) (aOR, 1.043) was associated with RW at 14 months of age. Conclusion: Cord blood IgE was a risk factor for AD at 6 months of age. Total IgE and sensitization to egg white at 6 months of age were risk factors for AD at 14 months of age. PHA-induced IL-4 production in PBMCs at 6 months of age was a risk factor for RW at 14 months of age.