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Published on: September 27, 2017
Atopic dermatitis in premature and term children
B Kvenshagen1, M Jacobsen, R Halvorsen
1Department of Paediatrics, Oestfold Hospital Trust, 1603 Fredrikstad, Norway. bent-kv@online.no
The prevalence of atopic dermatitis (AD) in children under two years old is 18.6%, with no significant differences observed between premature and term infants. Food allergies affect 15.8% of children with AD, regardless of birth status or delivery method.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric dermatology
- Allergy and immunology
- Neonatal care
Background:
- Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a common chronic inflammatory skin condition in children.
- Premature birth and mode of delivery are potential risk factors for developing AD and food allergies.
- Understanding the prevalence and associated factors of AD is crucial for early intervention and management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of atopic dermatitis (AD) in premature versus term infants.
- To assess the frequency of food allergy in children diagnosed with AD.
- To investigate if the mode of delivery (cesarean section vs. vaginal delivery) influences AD prevalence.
Main Methods:
- A prospective follow-up study involving 609 children (193 premature, 416 term) over two years.
- Clinical assessment of AD symptoms using the SCORAD index and evaluation for food allergies.
- Diagnostic tests included skin prick tests, specific IgE measurements, elimination diets, and double-blind placebo-controlled challenges.
Main Results:
- The overall prevalence of AD at two years was 18.6% (19.9% in premature, 17.9% in term infants).
- Food allergy was present in 15.8% of children with AD, with similar rates in premature and term infants.
- AD prevalence was comparable between children delivered via cesarean section (17.5%) and vaginally (19.1%).
Conclusions:
- The prevalence of AD in the first two years of life is approximately 18.6%, not significantly differing between premature and term children.
- Food allergies occur in 15.8% of children with AD, with no significant difference based on prematurity.
- The mode of delivery does not appear to influence the prevalence of atopic dermatitis in early childhood.
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