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Altered cerebral dominance in an atopic population
1Department of Medicine, Providence Hospital, Southfield, Michigan 48075.
Brain, Behavior, and Immunity
|September 1, 1988
Summary
Individuals with allergies, allergic rhinitis, and asthma show a higher prevalence of left-handedness. This study suggests a link between handedness and immune system regulation in allergic conditions.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Immunology
- Human Genetics
Background:
- Atopic diseases, such as allergic rhinitis and asthma, are characterized by autonomic neurologic dysfunction and disordered immunoregulation.
- Previous hypotheses suggest a connection between cerebral dominance, immune system function, and developmental influences.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between handedness and allergic conditions.
- To explore potential links between cerebral dominance and immune system regulation in atopy.
Main Methods:
- Assessed handedness in 853 subjects using a modified Oldfield Handedness Inventory.
- Collected personal and family histories of allergy-related problems and left-handedness via survey.
- Analyzed data comparing handedness in allergy patients versus a general health screening population.
Main Results:
- A significant shift towards left-handedness was observed in participants from an allergy practice and those self-reporting allergies, allergic rhinitis, or asthma.
- Subjects with asthma showed a lower mean laterality quotient and a higher incidence of left-handedness compared to controls.
- Increased left-handedness was noted in children of asthmatic parents, particularly mothers.
Conclusions:
- The findings support a relationship between handedness and allergic conditions, potentially reflecting shared developmental influences on cerebral dominance and immune regulation.
- Results align with Geschwind's hypothesis linking brain lateralization and immunologic set.
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