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Breast-feeding influences thymic size in late infancy
H Hasselbalch1, M D Engelmann, A K Ersboll
1Department of Radiology, Hvidovre Hospital, University of Copenhagen, Kettegårds Allé 30, DK-2650 Hvidovre, Denmark.
European Journal of Pediatrics
|December 11, 1999
Summary
Breast milk significantly increases thymus size in late infancy. Continued breastfeeding at 10 months correlates with a larger thymus, suggesting immune benefits of breast milk.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Pediatrics
- Human Biology
Background:
- Previous research indicated larger thymus size in breast-fed infants at 4 months.
- The impact of breastfeeding on thymus size in later infancy remained to be investigated.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine if breastfeeding influences thymic size in late infancy.
- To assess the relationship between breastfeeding duration and thymic size at 10 months.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of 50 partially breast-fed infants was studied.
- Ultrasound assessment of thymic index was performed at 8 and 10 months.
- Statistical analysis controlled for infectious disease influence.
Main Results:
- Infants still breast-fed at 10 months had a significantly larger thymic index (P=0.05).
- This difference remained significant after controlling for infections (P=0.03).
- A positive correlation was found between daily breastfeeding frequency and thymic index (P=0.01).
Conclusions:
- Breastfeeding positively influences thymic size in late infancy.
- Immune-modulating factors in breast milk are likely responsible for this effect.
- Breast milk supports thymus development and immune function in infants.