The onset of allergic rhinitis in Japanese atopic children: a preliminary prospective study

Syuji Yonekura1, Yoshitaka Okamoto, Naoki Shimojo

  • 1Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Japan.

Acta Oto-Laryngologica
|April 14, 2012
PubMed

Insights

Identifying risk factors for allergic rhinitis (AR) and bronchial asthma (BA) in children is crucial. Early interventions for AR may prevent the development of BA in atopic children.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Allergy and Immunology
  • Immunology
  • Respiratory Medicine

Background:

  • Allergic diseases like allergic rhinitis (AR) and bronchial asthma (BA) significantly impact children's health.
  • Understanding the progression and risk factors for these conditions is vital for effective prevention and management.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To prospectively identify risk factors for the onset of allergic rhinitis (AR) in atopic children.
  • To investigate the relationship between AR, bronchial asthma (BA), and background factors in pediatric patients.

Main Methods:

  • A prospective study enrolled 100 children with atopic dermatitis or food allergy, followed for over 2 years.
  • Regular allergy examinations were conducted every 3-6 months.
  • Analysis focused on the development of AR and BA, and associated background factors like house dust mite (HDM) sensitization and eosinophil counts.

Main Results:

  • Of 60 patients without BA initially, 12 developed it, with AR preceding BA in 83.3% of cases.
  • Positive sensitization to house dust mite (HDM) was linked to BA development.
  • High serum HDM-specific IgE, elevated blood eosinophils, and nasal eosinophils were associated with AR development.

Conclusions:

  • Background factors differ among allergic diseases, highlighting the need for tailored approaches.
  • Interventions effective in preventing allergic rhinitis (AR) also show promise in preventing bronchial asthma (BA) onset.
  • This preliminary study underscores the interconnectedness of allergic conditions in children.
Abstract

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