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The effect of prenatal perfluorinated chemicals exposures on pediatric atopy

I-Jen Wang1, Wu-Shiun Hsieh, Chia-Yang Chen

  • 1Department of Pediatrics, Taipei Hospital, Department of Health, Taipei, Taiwan.

Environmental Research
|May 24, 2011
PubMed

Insights

Prenatal exposure to perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) is linked to higher immunoglobulin E (IgE) levels in newborns. This association was observed specifically in male infants, suggesting a potential impact on immune development.

Area of Science:

  • Environmental Health
  • Immunology
  • Pediatrics

Background:

  • The impact of perfluorinated compounds (PFCs) on immune system development and allergic diseases remains unclear.
  • Prenatal exposure to environmental chemicals is a growing concern for child health.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the association between prenatal exposure to specific PFCs and immunoglobulin E (IgE) levels.
  • To examine the relationship between prenatal PFC exposure and the development of atopic dermatitis (AD) in early childhood.

Main Methods:

  • A cohort of newborns was assessed for cord blood PFC concentrations using Ultra-performance liquid chromatography/triple-quadrupole mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS).
  • Infants were followed up to age 2 years for AD development and serum total IgE levels.
  • Statistical analyses explored correlations between cord blood PFCs, IgE levels, and AD incidence, with stratification by gender.

Main Results:

  • Elevated levels of perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) in cord blood were positively correlated with cord blood IgE levels.
  • This positive correlation between PFOA, PFOS, and IgE was significant in male infants.
  • No significant association was found between prenatal PFOS exposure and the development of atopic dermatitis.

Conclusions:

  • Prenatal exposure to PFOA and PFOS is associated with increased cord blood IgE levels, particularly in boys.
  • These findings suggest a potential role for specific PFCs in modulating fetal immune system development.
Abstract

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