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Routine Emollient Therapy with Coconut Oil in Preterm Infants and Allergic Sensitization at 1-Year Corrected Age
Terri Williams1, Jemma Weidinger1, Jessica R Metcalfe1
1Immunology Department, Perth Children's Hospital, Perth, Washington, Australia.
Insights
Coconut oil is a safe skin care option for preterm infants, as it did not cause allergic sensitization in a recent study. This finding supports its use in neonatal intensive care units for improving infant skin health.
Area of Science:
- Neonatal dermatology
- Pediatric allergy
- Infant skin care
Background:
- Skin care for preterm infants is crucial yet understudied.
- Virgin coconut oil presents a promising option for neonatal skin management.
- Potential for allergic sensitization from coconut oil in neonates requires investigation.
Abstract:
Introduction: Skin care for very and extremely preterm infant is an important and previously underappreciated topic. Coconut oil skin care for preterm infants is a promising option, but several important questions remain including the theoretical potential for allergic sensitization.
Methods:
This prospective study conducted skin prick testing and allergy questionnaires in a cohort of very preterm infants who received routine skin care with virgin coconut oil during their neonatal admission.
Results:
Ninety infants (median GA 28.2 weeks, median BW 1,048 g) were assessed at corrected age 15 months. A total of 8 children had positive skin prick tests to 1 or more of the most common allergens (egg, peanut, cashew, dust mite). No child was sensitized to coconut oil or extract.
Conclusions:
We did not find evidence of allergic sensitization following neonatal skin care with coconut oil in children born preterm.
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