Sensitization trajectories to multiple allergen components in a population-based birth-cohort.

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Pediatrics
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Allergic sensitization profiles vary geographically, impacting allergic disease associations.
• Previous sensitization trajectory studies in Northern Europe may not be generalizable to Southern Europe.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify childhood allergic sensitization trajectories in a Portuguese birth cohort.
• To assess the association between these trajectories and allergic outcomes.

Main Methods:

• Latent class analysis (LCA) identified sensitization profiles in 452 children at ages 4, 7, and 10.
• Sensitization trajectories were defined by cluster transitions.
• Logistic regression analyzed associations with allergic diseases at age 13.

Main Results:

• Five distinct sensitization trajectories were identified.
• The 'early HDM and persistent/late grass pollen' trajectory was linked to rhinitis.
• The 'early persistent HDM' trajectory was associated with asthma and rhinitis.

Conclusions:

• Childhood allergic sensitization trajectories differ between Southern and Northern European populations.
• Specific trajectories, such as early house dust mite sensitization, indicate varying risks for allergic diseases.
• Findings are crucial for developing targeted public health prevention strategies in Portugal.