Prevalence of allergies in children with complex medical problems

The aim is to determine whether there is a pattern of allergic and immune abnormalities in children with complex medical problems. The authors retrospectively studied a convenience sample of 69 children in a case management program. Of 69 children, 42 underwent immunologic investigations during the selected time frame. Forty (95%) had 1 or more allergic disorder. Cow's milk sensitivity was present in 32 (76%). Abnormal immunoglobulin levels, IgG, IgA, and IgE were found at a greater frequency than in the general pediatric population (P <.005). Lymphocyte subset percentages were decreased for B cells (CD19) and natural killer cells (CD57, CD16/56; P <.05). Presence of a gastrostomy tube, gastroesophageal reflux disease, gastric acid suppression, and chronic constipation were common and failure to thrive, developmental delay, sleep disturbance, and recurrent otitis media were present in the majority. The authors report a higher than expected prevalence of allergic and immune abnormalities in children with complex medical problems.