Related Experiment Videos
Atopic allergy and immunoglobulins in children with adenoids and recurrent otitis media
Insights
This study found a high incidence of atopic allergy markers in children undergoing adenoidectomy, particularly those with recurrent otitis media. Allergy investigation revealed common atopic indicators in both groups, suggesting a link between allergy and middle ear infections.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Allergy and Immunology
- Otolaryngology
- Immunology
Background:
- Recurrent otitis media and nasal obstruction are common reasons for adenoidectomy in children.
- The role of atopic allergy in these conditions is not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence of atopic allergy in children undergoing adenoidectomy.
- To explore potential associations between atopic conditions and recurrent otitis media.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of 154 children (1-16 years) who underwent adenoidectomy were evaluated.
- Allergy assessment included medical history, skin prick tests, eye tests, serum IgE, RAST, blood eosinophils, and immunoglobulins (IgG, IgA, IgM).
- Children were grouped based on primary indication for adenoidectomy: recurrent otitis media or nasal obstruction.
Main Results:
- No increased incidence of immunoglobulin deficiency was observed.
- A significant family history of atopic disease and/or otitis media was noted, especially in the recurrent otitis media group.
- High rates of positive skin/eye tests, eosinophilia, elevated IgE, and positive RAST tests were found in both groups, indicating atopic predisposition.
Conclusions:
- Atopic allergy is prevalent in children undergoing adenoidectomy, irrespective of the primary indication.
- A strong association exists between family history of atopy and recurrent otitis media.
- Findings suggest a potential link between atopic allergy and the development of recurrent otitis media, warranting further investigation.
Abstract:
From 274 adenoidectomized children 1-16 years of age two groups were selected: children with a history of recurrent otitis media and/or otosalpingitis (middle ear effusion) and those in which nasal obstruction was the main symptom. In all, 154 children were subjected to an allergy investigation including history, skin tests, eye tests, determination of IgE and RAST, blood eosinophils and immunoglobulins G, A and M. No increased incidence of immunoglobulin deficiency was found in either group in comparison with unselected children. A family history of atopic disease and/or otitis media was highly overrepresented, especially in the children with recurrent otitis media as the reason for the adenoidectomy. Atopic diseases had occurred in 24.4% of the children. Furthermore, in both groups there was a high incidence of positive skin and eye tests. An increased incidence of eosinophila, positive RAST tests and elevated IgE levels were also found. In all, 39.6% of the children had two or more laboratory findings characteristic of the atopic state but no significant difference was found between the two groups. Possible connections between atopic allergy and recurrent otitis media are discussed.