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Extent of fussing and colic type crying preceding atopic disease
M Kalliomäki1, P Laippala, H Korvenranta
1Department of Paediatrics, Turku University Hospital, PO Box 52, FI-20521 Turku, Finland. markal@utu.fi
Insights
Infant fussing and colic crying in early weeks may predict atopic disease development. This study followed 116 high-risk infants, identifying behavioral patterns linked to later atopic conditions.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Neonatology
- Allergy and Immunology
Background:
- Early infant behavior, including fussing and crying, is a common concern for parents.
- Atopic diseases, such as eczema and asthma, often have their onset in early childhood.
- Identifying predictive markers for atopic disease can facilitate early intervention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between early infant behavioral patterns and the subsequent development of atopic disease.
- To determine if specific types of crying or fussing in the first few months of life are predictive of atopic disease at two years of age.
Main Methods:
- A prospective follow-up study involving 116 high-risk infants.
- 24-hour behavioral charting over seven consecutive days was conducted at 7 and 12 weeks of age.
- Infants were monitored for the manifestation of atopic disease at two years of age.
Main Results:
- Infants who developed atopic disease by two years (38%) exhibited significantly more fussing at 7 weeks of age compared to healthy infants (62%).
- Children who later developed atopic disease also showed a significantly higher incidence of colic-type crying at 12 weeks of age.
- These behavioral patterns were statistically significant predictors of atopic disease development.
Conclusions:
- Early-life fussing and colic-type crying in high-risk infants are associated with an increased likelihood of developing atopic disease by age two.
- Behavioral assessments in the neonatal period may serve as potential early indicators for atopic disease risk.
- Further research could explore the underlying mechanisms linking infant behavior and atopic conditions.
Abstract:
In a prospective follow up of 116 high risk infants, a 24 hour behavioural chart on seven consecutive days was analysed at seven and 12 weeks of age. Of children who manifested atopic disease at 2 years, 44/116 (38%), had shown significantly more fussing during the seventh, and colic type cry during the twelfth week than those who remained healthy (72/116, 62%).