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Cooper PJ, Figueiredo CA, Rodriguez A, Dos Santos LM, Ribeiro-Silva RC, Carneiro VL, Costa G, Magalhães T, Dos Santos de Jesus T, Rios R, da Silva HBF, Costa R, Chico ME, Vaca M, Alcantara-Neves N, Rodrigues LC, Cruz AA, Barreto ML. Understanding and controlling asthma in Latin America: A review of recent research informed by the SCAALA programme. Clin Transl Allergy 2023; 13:e12232. [PMID: 36973960 PMCID: PMC10041090 DOI: 10.1002/clt2.12232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2022] [Revised: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Asthma is an important health concern in Latin America (LA) where it is associated with variable prevalence and disease burden between countries. High prevalence and morbidity have been observed in some regions, particularly marginalized urban populations. Research over the past 10 years from LA has shown that childhood disease is primarily non-atopic. The attenuation of atopy may be explained by enhanced immune regulation induced by intense exposures to environmental factors such as childhood infections and poor environmental conditions of the urban poor. Non-atopic symptoms are associated with environmental and lifestyle factors including poor living conditions, respiratory infections, psychosocial stress, obesity, and a diet of highly processed foods. Ancestry (particularly African) and genetic factors increase asthma risk, and some of these factors may be specific to LA settings. Asthma in LA tends to be poorly controlled and depends on access to health care and medications. There is a need to improve management and access to medication through primary health care. Future research should consider the heterogeneity of asthma to identify relevant endotypes and underlying causes. The outcome of such research will need to focus on implementable strategies relevant to populations living in resource-poor settings where the disease burden is greatest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip J Cooper
- Escuela de Medicina, Universidad Internacional del Ecuador, Quito, Ecuador
- Institute of Infection and Immunity, St George's University of London, London, UK
| | - Camila A Figueiredo
- Instituto de Ciências da Saúde, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Salvador, Brazil
| | | | | | | | | | - Gustavo Costa
- Center for Data Knowledge and Integration for Health (CIDACS), Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Bahia, Salvador, Brazil
- Universidade Salvador (UNIFACS), Salvador, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Thiago Magalhães
- Instituto de Saúde Coletiva, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Salvador, Brazil
| | | | - Raimon Rios
- Instituto de Ciências da Saúde, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Salvador, Brazil
| | | | - Ryan Costa
- Instituto de Ciências da Saúde, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Salvador, Brazil
| | - Martha E Chico
- Fundacion Ecuatoriana para la Investigacion en Salud (FEPIS), Esmeraldas, Ecuador
| | - Maritza Vaca
- Instituto de Saúde Coletiva, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Salvador, Brazil
- Fundacion Ecuatoriana para la Investigacion en Salud (FEPIS), Esmeraldas, Ecuador
| | | | - Laura C Rodrigues
- Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Alvaro A Cruz
- Universidade Federal da Bahia and Fundação ProAR, Salvador, Brazil
| | - Mauricio L Barreto
- Center for Data Knowledge and Integration for Health (CIDACS), Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Bahia, Salvador, Brazil
- Instituto de Saúde Coletiva, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Salvador, Brazil
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Wu CY, Huang HY, Pan WC, Liao SL, Hua MC, Tsai MH, Lai SH, Yeh KW, Chen LC, Huang JL, Yao TC. Allergic diseases attributable to atopy in a population sample of Asian children. Sci Rep 2021; 11:16052. [PMID: 34362983 PMCID: PMC8346539 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-95579-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2021] [Accepted: 07/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The proportion of allergic diseases attributable to atopy remains a subject of controversy. This study aimed to estimate the population risk of physician-diagnosed asthma, rhinitis and eczema attributed to atopy among a population sample of Asian school-age children. Asian children aged 5–18 years (n = 1321) in the Prediction of Allergies in Taiwanese CHildren (PATCH) study were tested for serum allergen-specific immunoglobulin E. Physician-diagnosed asthma, rhinitis and eczema were assessed by a modified International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood questionnaire. Atopy was defined as the presence of serum allergen-specific immunoglobulin E. In this population-based study, 50.4% of the subjects with asthma, 46.3% with rhinitis, and 46.7% with eczema were attributable to atopy. The population attributable risk (PAR) of atopy for three allergic diseases was higher in adolescents (asthma, 54.4%; rhinitis, 59.6%; eczema, 49.5%) than younger children aged less than 10 years (asthma, 46.9%; rhinitis, 39.5%; eczema, 41.9%). Among the seven allergen categories, sensitization to mites had the highest PARs for all three allergic diseases (51.3 to 64.1%), followed by sensitization to foods (asthma, 7.1%; rhinitis, 10.4%; eczema 27.7%). In conclusion, approximately half (46.3 to 50.4%) of Asian children in Taiwan with allergic diseases are attributable to atopy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao-Yi Wu
- Division of Allergy, Asthma, and Rheumatology, Department of Pediatrics, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, 5 Fu-Hsin Street, Kweishan, Taoyuan, Taiwan.,School of Medicine, Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Hsin-Yi Huang
- Division of Allergy, Asthma, and Rheumatology, Department of Pediatrics, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, 5 Fu-Hsin Street, Kweishan, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Wen-Chi Pan
- Institute of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Sui-Ling Liao
- School of Medicine, Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Taoyuan, Taiwan.,Community Medicine Research Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital At Keelung, Keelung, Taiwan.,Department of Pediatrics, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital At Keelung, Keelung, Taiwan
| | - Man-Chin Hua
- School of Medicine, Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Taoyuan, Taiwan.,Community Medicine Research Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital At Keelung, Keelung, Taiwan.,Department of Pediatrics, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital At Keelung, Keelung, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Han Tsai
- School of Medicine, Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Taoyuan, Taiwan.,Community Medicine Research Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital At Keelung, Keelung, Taiwan.,Department of Pediatrics, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital At Keelung, Keelung, Taiwan
| | - Shen-Hao Lai
- School of Medicine, Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Taoyuan, Taiwan.,Community Medicine Research Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital At Keelung, Keelung, Taiwan.,Division of Pediatric Pulmonology, Department of Pediatrics, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Kuo-Wei Yeh
- Division of Allergy, Asthma, and Rheumatology, Department of Pediatrics, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, 5 Fu-Hsin Street, Kweishan, Taoyuan, Taiwan.,School of Medicine, Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Taoyuan, Taiwan.,Community Medicine Research Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital At Keelung, Keelung, Taiwan
| | - Li-Chen Chen
- School of Medicine, Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Taoyuan, Taiwan.,Community Medicine Research Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital At Keelung, Keelung, Taiwan.,Department of Pediatrics, New Taipei Municipal TuCheng Hospital, 6 Sec. 2 Jinchen Road, Tucheng District, New Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Jing-Long Huang
- School of Medicine, Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Taoyuan, Taiwan. .,Community Medicine Research Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital At Keelung, Keelung, Taiwan. .,Department of Pediatrics, New Taipei Municipal TuCheng Hospital, 6 Sec. 2 Jinchen Road, Tucheng District, New Taipei, Taiwan.
| | - Tsung-Chieh Yao
- Division of Allergy, Asthma, and Rheumatology, Department of Pediatrics, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, 5 Fu-Hsin Street, Kweishan, Taoyuan, Taiwan. .,School of Medicine, Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Taoyuan, Taiwan. .,Community Medicine Research Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital At Keelung, Keelung, Taiwan.
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3
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Johnston CF, Broom M, Shadbolt B, Todd DA. Smoking in the family is most predictive of the development of childhood asthma in preterm babies <30 weeks gestation: Results of the Respiratory Outcomes Study 2 (RESPOS2). J Asthma 2017; 55:705-711. [PMID: 28902527 DOI: 10.1080/02770903.2017.1366508] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The Respiratory Outcomes Study 2 (RESPOS2) investigated the relationship between neonatal outcomes (specifically, chronic lung disease [CLD]) and environmental factors on the development of asthma and atopic outcomes at primary school age for preterm babies (PBs) <30 weeks gestational age (GA). METHODS The study included all surviving PBs <30 weeks GA admitted to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at Canberra Hospital, Australian Capital Territory between 2007 and 2009. Parents were sent a questionnaire regarding asthma and atopy symptoms when the PBs were aged 5-7 years old. Data were compared based on CLD status. RESULTS There were 103 PBs included in the study with a 68.9% response rate to the respiratory questionnaire (71/103). Of these PBs, 15/71 (21.1%) received a diagnosis of CLD. There were no significant differences with regards to asthma, hay fever or eczema in PBs either with or without CLD. The most significant predictor for the development of asthma was smoking in the family (Odds Ratio [OR]: 11.66, 95% Confidence Interval [CI]: 2.01-67.56) with a trend toward significance for family history of asthma (OR: 3.83, 95% CI: 0.85-17.25). CONCLUSION The RESPOS2 has confirmed previous reports that CLD in PBs <30 weeks GA is not associated with the development of childhood asthma, hay fever or eczema. In our group of PBs, the strongest predictor of the development of asthma was smoking in the family.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claire F Johnston
- a Australian National University (ANU) Medical School , Canberra , ACT , Australia
| | - Margaret Broom
- b Department of Neonatology , Centenary Hospital for Women and Children , Garran , ACT , Australia
| | - Bruce Shadbolt
- c Centre for Advances in Epidemiology and IT , Canberra Hospital , Garran , ACT , Australia
| | - David A Todd
- a Australian National University (ANU) Medical School , Canberra , ACT , Australia.,b Department of Neonatology , Centenary Hospital for Women and Children , Garran , ACT , Australia
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Lawson JA, Chu LM, Rennie DC, Hagel L, Karunanayake CP, Pahwa P, Dosman JA. Prevalence, risk factors, and clinical outcomes of atopic and nonatopic asthma among rural children. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol 2017; 118:304-310. [PMID: 28087381 DOI: 10.1016/j.anai.2016.11.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2016] [Revised: 11/19/2016] [Accepted: 11/29/2016] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Because of time and cost constraints, objective classification of atopic and nonatopic asthma has been limited in large epidemiologic studies. However, as we try to better understand exposure-outcome associations and ensure appropriate treatment of asthma, it is important to focus on phenotype-defined asthma classification. OBJECTIVE To compare atopic and nonatopic asthma in rural children with regard to risk factors and clinical outcomes. METHODS We conducted a cross-sectional study in rural Saskatchewan, Canada, in 2011. Parents of 6- to 14-year-old children completed a health and exposure survey. Skin prick tests were completed in a subsample of 529 children. Asthma was based physician diagnosis. Asthma status was defined as no asthma, nonatopic asthma, and atopic asthma. RESULTS Asthma prevalence was 14.7% of which 32.1% of cases were atopic. After adjustment, early respiratory illness and a family history of asthma were predictors of childhood asthma, regardless of atopic status (P < .05). Being overweight and having a dog in the home were associated with an increased risk of nonatopic asthma (P < .05). A mother with a history of smoking increased the risk of atopic asthma (P = .01). Compared with those with nonatopic asthma, in the past 12 months, children with atopic asthma were more likely to report a sneezy, runny, or blocked nose or have shortness of breath (odds ratio >2), whereas those with nonatopic asthma were more likely to have parents who missed work (odd ratio >3). Those with nonatopic asthma had significantly lower forced expiratory volume in 1 second compared w2ith those with atopic asthma. CONCLUSION Exposures may contribute differentially to atopic and nonatopic asthma and result in differential clinical presentation or burden. The study of these characteristics is important for etiologic understanding and management decisions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua A Lawson
- Department of Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada; Canadian Center for Health and Safety in Agriculture, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada.
| | - Luan M Chu
- Canadian Center for Health and Safety in Agriculture, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada; Health Sciences Program, College of Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
| | - Donna C Rennie
- Canadian Center for Health and Safety in Agriculture, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada; College of Nursing, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
| | - Louise Hagel
- Canadian Center for Health and Safety in Agriculture, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
| | - Chandima P Karunanayake
- Canadian Center for Health and Safety in Agriculture, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
| | - Punam Pahwa
- Canadian Center for Health and Safety in Agriculture, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada; Department of Community Health and Epidemiology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
| | - James A Dosman
- Canadian Center for Health and Safety in Agriculture, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
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5
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Akinbami LJ, Simon AE, Schoendorf KC. Trends in allergy prevalence among children aged 0-17 years by asthma status, United States, 2001-2013. J Asthma 2016; 53:356-62. [PMID: 26666655 DOI: 10.3109/02770903.2015.1126848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Children with asthma and allergies--particularly food and/or multiple allergies-are at risk for adverse asthma outcomes. This analysis describes allergy prevalence trends among US children by asthma status. METHODS We analyzed 2001-2013 National Health Interview Survey data for children aged 0-17 years. We estimated trends for reported respiratory, food, and skin allergy and the percentage of children with one, two, or all three allergy types by asthma status. We estimated unadjusted trends, and among children with asthma, adjusted associations between demographic characteristics and allergy. RESULTS Prevalence of any allergy increased by 0.3 percentage points annually among children without asthma but not among children with asthma. However, underlying patterns changed among children with asthma: food and skin allergy prevalence increased as did the percentage with all three allergy types. Among children with asthma, risk was higher among younger and non-Hispanic black children for reported skin allergy, among non-Hispanic white children for reported respiratory allergy, and among non-poor children for food and respiratory allergies. Prevalence of having one allergy type decreased by 0.50 percentage points annually, while the percent with all three types increased 0.2 percentage points annually. Non-poor and non-Hispanic white children with asthma were more likely to have multiple allergy types. CONCLUSIONS While overall allergy prevalence among children with asthma remained stable, patterns in reported allergy type and number suggested a greater proportion may be at risk of adverse asthma outcomes associated with allergy: food allergy increased as did the percentage with all three allergy types.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lara J Akinbami
- a National Center for Health Statistics, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention , Hyattsville , MD , USA .,b US Public Health Service , Rockville , MD , USA , and
| | - Alan E Simon
- a National Center for Health Statistics, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention , Hyattsville , MD , USA
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Bjerg A, Hedman L, Perzanowski M, Wennergren G, Lundbäck B, Rönmark E. Decreased importance of environmental risk factors for childhood asthma from 1996 to 2006. Clin Exp Allergy 2015; 45:146-53. [PMID: 25323476 DOI: 10.1111/cea.12439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2014] [Revised: 07/23/2014] [Accepted: 09/01/2014] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The large increase in asthma prevalence continues in several, but not all areas. Despite the individual risk factors that have been identified, the reasons for the observed trends in prevalence are largely unknown. OBJECTIVE This study sought to characterize what trends in risk factors accompanied trends in asthma prevalence. METHODS Two population-based cohorts of 7- to 8-year-old children from the same Swedish study areas examined by expanded International Study of Asthma and Allergy in Childhood questionnaires were compared 10 years apart. In 1996 and 2006, 3430 (97% participation) and 2585 (96% participation) questionnaires were completed, respectively. A subset was skin-prick-tested: in 1996 and 2006, 2148 (88% participation) and 1700 (90% participation) children, respectively. The adjusted population-attributable fraction (aPAF) was calculated using the prevalence and multivariate odds ratio of each risk factor. RESULTS The prevalence of current asthma and wheeze was similar in 1996 and 2006. Allergic sensitization, however, increased from 21% to 30%. The prevalence of parental asthma increased from 17% to 24%, while respiratory infections and maternal smoking decreased (60% to 29% and 32% to 16%, respectively). The aPAFs of non-environmental risk factors for current asthma increased in 1996-2006: allergic sensitization from 35% to 41%, parental asthma from 27% to 45% and male sex from 20% to 25%. Conversely, the aPAFs of environmental risk factors decreased: respiratory infections from 36% to 32% and damp home and maternal smoking from 14% and 19%, respectively, to near zero in 2006. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE From 1996 to 2006, the non-environmental risk factors parental asthma, allergic sensitization and male sex had an increasing or constant importance for current asthma in 7- to 8-year-old children. The importance of the environmental exposures damp home, respiratory infections and maternal smoking decreased. This counterbalancing in risk factors may explain the level of prevalence of current asthma.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Bjerg
- Krefting Research Centre, Department of Internal Medicine and Clinical Nutrition, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden; Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Occupational and Environmental Medicine, the OLIN Unit, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
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7
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Astle V, Broom M, Todd DA, Charles B, Ringland C, Ciszek K, Shadbolt B. Respiratory outcomes study (RESPOS) for preterm infants at primary school age. J Asthma 2014; 52:40-5. [PMID: 25162302 DOI: 10.3109/02770903.2014.952436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Pulmonary function abnormalities and hospital re-admissions in survivors of neonatal lung disease remain highly prevalent. The respiratory outcomes study (RESPOS) aimed to investigate the respiratory and associated atopy outcomes in preterm infants <30 weeks gestational age (GA) and/or birth-weight (BWt) <1000 g at primary school age, and to compare these outcomes between infants with and without chronic lung disease (CLD). METHODS In the RESPOS 92 parents of preterm infants admitted to the Neonatal unit in Canberra Hospital between 1/1/2001 and 31/12/2003 were sent a questionnaire regarding their respiratory, atopy management and follow-up. RESULTS Fifty-three parents responded, including 28 preterm infants who had CLD and 25 who had no CLD. The gestational age was significantly lower in the CLD group compared to the non-CLD group [26.9 (26.3-27.5) CLD and 28.6 (28.3-29.0) non-CLD] [weeks [95% confidence interval (CI)]], as was the birth weight [973 (877.4-1068.8) CLD versus 1221 (1135.0-1307.0) non-CLD] [g (CI)]. CLD infants compared to non-CLD infants were significantly more likely to have been: given surfactant, ventilated and on oxygen at 28 days and 36 weeks. These neonates were also more likely to have: been discharged from the neonatal unit on oxygen, exhibit a history of PDA or sepsis and to have a current paediatrician. However, despite these differences, there was no significant difference in the proportion of asthma or atopic disease between the two groups. CONCLUSIONS The RESPOS could not demonstrate respiratory and/or atopy differences between the CLD and the non-CLD groups at primary school age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valerie Astle
- Department of Neonatology , Centenary Hospital for Women and Children , Canberra , Australia
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8
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Drkulec V, Nogalo B, Perica M, Plavec D, Pezer M, Turkalj M. Sensitization profile in differential diagnosis: allergic asthma vs. chronic (nonspecific) cough syndrome. Med Sci Monit 2013; 19:409-15. [PMID: 23715171 PMCID: PMC3673807 DOI: 10.12659/msm.883925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2012] [Accepted: 10/19/2012] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the subgroup of children with chronic cough, distinguishing children with allergic asthma from those with non-specific respiratory symptoms is difficult. We have focused on determination of diagnostic efficiency of serum total IgE, sIgE, and skin prick test in differentiation of asthmatic children from children with nonspecific respiratory symptoms. MATERIAL AND METHODS A total of 131 children with median age of 7.5 years were enrolled in study and divided into 2 groups; children with allergic asthma (N=71) and children with chronic cough (N=60). Participants underwent the standard allergological examination, including skin prick test and measurement of total IgE, and following 3 allergen-specific IgE antibodies against aeroallergens: Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus, Ambrosia artemisiifolia, and Phleum pratense. RESULTS The percentage of patients with elevated level of total and sIgE was higher in children with allergic asthma than in children with chronic cough syndrome (P=0.0001). In children with asthma, sIgE had a better diagnostic value than total IgE. The best diagnostic efficiency of cut-off values for sIgE was shown for Der p sIgE. Skin prick test to all allergens had 78.82% sensitivity and 91.3% specificity in differentiating the 2 tested groups. The highest sensitivity and specificity in skin prick test was proved for Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus. CONCLUSIONS The sensitization profile consisting of total IgE, sIgE levels, and SPT clearly distinguishes children with allergic asthma from children with chronic nonspecific cough, but still with overlap. Therefore, diagnosis should always be confirmed by a thorough allergy investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vlado Drkulec
- Department of Pediatrics, County Hospital Pozega, Pozega, Croatia
| | - Boro Nogalo
- Reference Center for Clinical Immunology in Children Appointed by the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare of the Republic of Croatia, Department of Pediatric Allergology and Pulmonology Children’s Hospital Srebrnjak, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Marija Perica
- Reference Center for Clinical Immunology in Children Appointed by the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare of the Republic of Croatia, Department of Pediatric Allergology and Pulmonology Children’s Hospital Srebrnjak, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Davor Plavec
- Reference Center for Clinical Immunology in Children Appointed by the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare of the Republic of Croatia, Department of Pediatric Allergology and Pulmonology Children’s Hospital Srebrnjak, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Marija Pezer
- Department of Pediatrics, County Hospital Pozega, Pozega, Croatia
| | - Mirjana Turkalj
- Reference Center for Clinical Immunology in Children Appointed by the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare of the Republic of Croatia, Department of Pediatric Allergology and Pulmonology Children’s Hospital Srebrnjak, Zagreb, Croatia
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9
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Herr M, Just J, Nikasinovic L, Foucault C, Le Marec AM, Giordanella JP, Momas JI. Influence of host and environmental factors on wheezing severity in infants: findings from the PARIS birth cohort. Clin Exp Allergy 2012; 42:275-83. [PMID: 22288513 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2222.2011.03933.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Determinants of wheezing severity are poorly documented in infants. OBJECTIVES To study the determinants of wheezing severity in infants aged 18 months followed-up in the PARIS (« Pollution and Asthma Risk : an Infant Study ») birth cohort. METHODS Data on wheezing disorders, medical visits and medications, as well as biological markers of atopy, were collected during a medical examination at age 18 months. Severe wheeze was defined as wheeze that required inhaled corticosteroid and/or hospital-based care. Environmental exposures were assessed prospectively with regular questionnaires. Risk factors for wheeze in the first 18 months of life were assessed by multivariate regression models. RESULTS Participation in the medical examination concerned 48.2% of the original cohort. Prevalence of wheeze was 560/1879 (35.7%) and was influenced by male gender, parental history of asthma, siblings, daycare attendance, heavy parental smoking at home, and carpet covered floor in the child's bedroom. Being overweight increased the risk of wheeze by 62% (OR = 1.62, 95%CI 1.13-2.32). In addition, trends towards an increased risk of wheeze were found in infants exposed to daily use of cleaning sprays and to renovation activities. Conversely, the presence of a cat reduced the risk of wheeze (OR = 0.65, 95%CI 0.47-0.89), without any evidence of healthy-pet keeping effect. Severe wheeze concerned 286 of the wheezers (42.7%). The prevalence of severe wheeze was related to atopy, and risk of severe wheeze was in particular increased in infants having eosinophilia (OR = 1.76, 95%CI 1.21-2.55) or being sensitized to ≥ 2 allergens (OR = 1.88, 95%CI 1.13-3.14). CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE Whilst risk factors for wheeze before 18 months of age are factors related to infections, indoor air pollution, and being overweight, the severity of wheeze is mainly due to the atopic status of the child. We suggest that atopy should be further considered in the assessment of wheezing severity in infants.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Herr
- Univ Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Laboratoire Santé Publique et Environnement, Paris, France
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10
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Rosenberger A, Bickeböller H, McCormack V, Brenner DR, Duell EJ, Tjønneland A, Friis S, Muscat JE, Yang P, Wichmann HE, Heinrich J, Szeszenia-Dabrowska N, Lissowska J, Zaridze D, Rudnai P, Fabianova E, Janout V, Bencko V, Brennan P, Mates D, Schwartz AG, Cote ML, Zhang ZF, Morgenstern H, Oh SS, Field JK, Raji O, McLaughlin JR, Wiencke J, LeMarchand L, Neri M, Bonassi S, Andrew AS, Lan Q, Hu W, Orlow I, Park BJ, Boffetta P, Hung RJ. Asthma and lung cancer risk: a systematic investigation by the International Lung Cancer Consortium. Carcinogenesis 2012; 33:587-97. [PMID: 22198214 PMCID: PMC3291861 DOI: 10.1093/carcin/bgr307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Asthma has been hypothesized to be associated with lung cancer (LC) risk. We conducted a pooled analysis of 16 studies in the International Lung Cancer Consortium (ILCCO) to quantitatively assess this association and compared the results with 36 previously published studies. In total, information from 585 444 individuals was used. Study-specific measures were combined using random effects models. A meta-regression and subgroup meta-analyses were performed to identify sources of heterogeneity. The overall LC relative risk (RR) associated with asthma was 1.28 [95% confidence intervals (CIs) = 1.16-1.41] but with large heterogeneity (I(2) = 73%, P < 0.001) between studies. Among ILCCO studies, an increased risk was found for squamous cell (RR = 1.69, 95%, CI = 1.26-2.26) and for small-cell carcinoma (RR = 1.71, 95% CI = 0.99-2.95) but was weaker for adenocarcinoma (RR = 1.09, 95% CI = 0.88-1.36). The increased LC risk was strongest in the 2 years after asthma diagnosis (RR = 2.13, 95% CI = 1.09-4.17) but subjects diagnosed with asthma over 10 years prior had no or little increased LC risk (RR = 1.10, 95% CI = 0.94-1.30). Because the increased incidence of LC was chiefly observed in small cell and squamous cell lung carcinomas, primarily within 2 years of asthma diagnosis and because the association was weak among never smokers, we conclude that the association may not reflect a causal effect of asthma on the risk of LC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Albert Rosenberger
- Department of Genetic Epidemiology, University Medical Center, Georg-August-University Göttingen, D-37073 Göttingen, Germany
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11
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Michaud B, Echraghi R, Just J. L’asthme sévère : les différents phénotypes. REVUE FRANCAISE D ALLERGOLOGIE 2010. [DOI: 10.1016/j.reval.2010.01.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
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12
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Sporik R, Henderson J, Hourihane JO. Clinical Immunology Review Series: An approach to the patient with allergy in childhood. Clin Exp Immunol 2009; 155:378-86. [PMID: 19141124 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2249.2008.03852.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Allergic conditions are common, with asthma being the most common chronic illness in childhood in most developed countries. Some 80% of asthmatic children are sensitized to aeroallergens, usually indoor animal dander and house dust mite. Some 80% of asthmatics also have rhinitis. Rhinitis and eczema receive less medical attention than asthma, but they can cause longterm morbidity and have substantial direct and indirect economic costs. Food allergy and anaphylaxis are increasingly recognised and are usually easily diagnosed and managed.Clinicians can use in vivo and in vitro measurements of allergen-specific immunoglobulin E to better time reintroduction of implicated foods. Specific parenteral and sublingual immunotherapy is widely practiced internationally but is uncommon in the UK. It may alter the natural history of aeroallergen reactive diseases in the upper and lower airways. Specific oral tolerance induction represents the current cutting edge in clinical allergy research. It remands resource intensive at present and cannot be adopted into routine clinical practice at this time.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Sporik
- Royal Cornwall Hospital, Truro, Cornwall, UK
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13
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Asthma: a syndrome composed of heterogeneous diseases. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol 2008; 101:1-8; quiz 8-11, 50. [PMID: 18681077 DOI: 10.1016/s1081-1206(10)60826-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To review the concept that asthma comprises distinct heterogeneous inflammatory disorders characterized by patients showing different phenotypes with distinct genetic components, environmental causes, and immunopathologic signa- DATA SOURCES Ovid MEDLINE and PubMed databases from 1950 to the present time were searched for relevant articles and references regarding the heterogeneity of asthma. STUDY SELECTION Articles that described the various phenotypes of asthma were used for this review. RESULTS Asthma is unlikely to be a single disease but rather a series of complex, overlapping individual diseases or phenotypes, each defined by its unique interaction between genetic and environmental factors. These conditions include syndromes characterized by allergen-exacerbated, nonallergic, and aspirin-exacerbated factors along with syndromes best distinguished by their pathologic findings (eosinophilic, neutrophilic, pauci-granulocytic), response to therapy (corticosteroid resistant), and natural history (remodeling prone). Additional phenotypes will almost certainly be identified as advances in genetics and other profiling methods are made and will be accompanied by the availability of clear biomarkers for distinguishing among them. CONCLUSIONS Responses to asthma medications vary considerably among patients, likely reflecting, at least in part, the differing sensitivities of the various asthma phenotypes. Selecting the best possible treatment course in individual patients will be aided by clearly identifying the different phenotypes. Physicians need to recognize this when making decisions to adjust treatment to improve asthma control.
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Lang A, Carlsen KH, Haaland G, Devulapalli CS, Munthe-Kaas M, Mowinckel P, Carlsen K. Severe asthma in childhood: assessed in 10 year olds in a birth cohort study. Allergy 2008; 63:1054-60. [PMID: 18691307 DOI: 10.1111/j.1398-9995.2008.01672.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 101] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Limited information is available regarding the prevalence of severe asthma in children. The present study aimed at investigating the prevalence of severe asthma in an urban child population; secondarily evaluating the applicability of the chosen definition by clinical characteristics. METHODS Children enrolled in the prospective birth cohort; the Environment and Childhood Asthma Study in Oslo; were reinvestigated at the age of 10 years (n = 1019). A representative population based cohort of 616 children [mean age 10.9 (SD 0.9) years] with lung function measurements at birth was used for prevalence estimates, whereas all 1019 children (154 with current asthma) attending the 10-year follow-up were included for verification of the definition of severe asthma. Clinical investigations included spirometry, tests of bronchial hyperresponsiveness, skin prick tests and exhaled nitric oxide. Severe asthma was defined as poorly controlled asthma despite treatment with > or = 800 microg budesonide or equivalent; assessed by a detailed structured interview. RESULTS The population point prevalence at age 10 years of current severe asthma was 0.5% (three of 616) and among children with current asthma 4.5% (three of 67). The 10/154 children identified as suffering from severe asthma more often had severe bronchial hyperresponsiveness (PD(20) methacholine <1 micromol) (60%vs 22%, P = 0.015), lower median forced expiratory volume in 1 s/forced vital capacity ratio (93%vs 99%, P = 0.04) and higher body mass index (mean BMI 22.3 vs 18.3, P < 0.001) than nonsevere current asthmatics. CONCLUSIONS The prevalence of severe asthma was 0.5% in all 10-year olds, and 4.5% among current asthmatics. The severe asthma definition applied in this study is supported by results of clinical investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Lang
- Department of Pediatrics, Ullevål University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
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15
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Ponsonby AL, Glasgow N, Pezic A, Dwyer T, Ciszek K, Kljakovic M. A temporal decline in asthma but not eczema prevalence from 2000 to 2005 at school entry in the Australian Capital Territory with further consideration of country of birth. Int J Epidemiol 2008; 37:559-69. [PMID: 18276624 DOI: 10.1093/ije/dyn029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Asthma prevalence has declined in some countries over the past 10 years. Most reports have been based on population surveys conducted at two points of time in a given location. Comparisons across countries and time periods can be limited by differences in study methodology or disease diagnostics in different communities. Here, we examined trends in asthma prevalence using serial annual data and further examine the importance of country of birth. METHODS The source population has children aged 4-6 commencing school in the Australian Capital Territory from 2000 to 2005 inclusive. Over 80% of these children and their families completed a health questionnaire on asthma, other atopic disease and respiratory symptoms using some questions from the International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood (n = 22 882). Current asthma has been previously validated against physician assessment in this setting. RESULTS The prevalence of current asthma declined (P < 0.001) but eczema ever increased (P < 0.001) from 2000 to 2005. The asthma decline was predominantly linear in form, and accompanied by a reduction in night cough and shortness of breath but not recent wheeze. Compared with Australian-born children, children from New Zealand and the United Kingdom had a similar prevalence of asthma, hay fever and eczema history. However, children born in other countries, such as Asia, generally had a lower prevalence of these disorders. The temporal trends for atopic disorders or respiratory symptoms did not differ for overseas-born compared with Australian-born children. CONCLUSION The decline in current asthma prevalence from 2000 to 2005 was linear in form and appeared uncoupled from trends in child eczema. Country of birth was associated with marked variation in atopic disorder prevalence. The similar temporal trends for Australian vs overseas-born children indicate that the factors underlying the asthma prevalence decline are unlikely to be only in the pre-natal period.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne-Louise Ponsonby
- Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
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16
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Arbes SJ, Gergen PJ, Vaughn B, Zeldin DC. Asthma cases attributable to atopy: results from the Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2007; 120:1139-45. [PMID: 17889931 PMCID: PMC2291202 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaci.2007.07.056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 167] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2007] [Revised: 07/18/2007] [Accepted: 07/20/2007] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The percentage of asthma cases attributable to atopy is the subject of debate. OBJECTIVES The objectives were to estimate the percentage of asthma cases in the US population attributable to atopy and to examine associations between allergen-specific skin tests and asthma. METHODS Data were obtained from the Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, in which subjects age 6 to 59 years were skin tested with 10 allergens. Atopy was defined as at least 1 positive allergen-specific test. Doctor-diagnosed current asthma was assessed by questionnaire. RESULTS In the United States, 56.3% of the asthma cases were attributable to atopy, and that percentage was greater among males than females, among persons in the highest education category than in lower education categories, and among persons living in highly populated metropolitan areas than in all other areas. Each allergen-specific test was strongly associated with asthma before adjustment (odds ratios varied from 2.1 to 4.5); however, after adjustment by all the allergens, only tests to cat, Alternaria, white oak, and perennial rye were independently associated with asthma. Perennial rye was inversely associated with asthma. Of the 10 allergens, a positive response to cat accounted for the highest percentage of asthma cases (29.3%). CONCLUSION About half of the current asthma cases in the US population represented by the Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey were attributable to atopy. Some allergen-specific skin tests were not independently associated with asthma. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS If atopy could be prevented or reversed, or its effect on asthma blocked, then a large percentage of asthma cases in the US population could be prevented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel J. Arbes
- Laboratory of Respiratory Biology, Division of Intramural Research, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, NC
| | - Peter J. Gergen
- Division of Allergy, Immunology, and Transplantation, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD
| | | | - Darryl C. Zeldin
- Laboratory of Respiratory Biology, Division of Intramural Research, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, NC
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Mendell MJ. Indoor residential chemical emissions as risk factors for respiratory and allergic effects in children: a review. INDOOR AIR 2007; 17:259-77. [PMID: 17661923 DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-0668.2007.00478.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 208] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Most research into effects of residential exposures on respiratory health has focused on allergens, moisture/mold, endotoxin, or combustion products. A growing body of research from outside the US; however, has associated chemical emissions from common indoor materials with risk of asthma, allergies, and pulmonary infections. This review summarizes 21 studies in the epidemiologic literature on associations between indoor residential chemical emissions, or emission-related materials or activities, and respiratory health or allergy in infants or children. Associations, some strong, were reported between many risk factors and respiratory or allergic effects. Risk factors identified most frequently included formaldehyde or particleboard, phthalates or plastic materials, and recent painting. Findings for other risk factors, such as aromatic and aliphatic chemical compounds, were limited but suggestive. Elevated risks were also reported for renovation and cleaning activities, new furniture, and carpets or textile wallpaper. Reviewed studies were entirely observational, limited in size, and variable in quality, and specific risk factors identified may only be indicators for correlated, truly causal exposures. Nevertheless, overall evidence suggests a new class of residential risk factors for adverse respiratory effects, ubiquitous in modern residences, and distinct from those currently recognized. It is important to confirm and quantify any risks, to motivate and guide necessary preventive actions. PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS Composite wood materials that emit formaldehyde, flexible plastics that emit plasticizers, and new paint have all been associated with increased risks of respiratory and allergic health effects in children. Although causal links have not been documented, and other correlated indoor-related exposures may ultimately be implicated, these findings nevertheless point to a new class of little recognized indoor risk factors for allergic and respiratory disease, distinct from the current set of indoor risk factors. The available evidence thus raises initial questions about many common residential practices: for instance, using pressed wood furnishings in children's bedrooms, repainting infant nurseries, and encasing mattresses and pillows with vinyl for asthmatic children. The findings summarized here suggest a need for substantially increased research to replicate these findings, identify causal factors, and validate preventive strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- M J Mendell
- Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Indoor Environment Department, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA.
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18
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Affiliation(s)
- Ju Yin
- The Children's Hospital at Westmead, Locked Bag 4001, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia
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19
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Garcia-Marcos L, Garcia-Hernández G, Morales Suarez-Varela M, Batlles Garrido J, Castro-Rodriguez JA. Asthma attributable to atopy: does it depend on the allergen supply? Pediatr Allergy Immunol 2007; 18:181-7. [PMID: 17346301 DOI: 10.1111/j.1399-3038.2006.00507.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The use of the population attributable fraction (PAF) of asthma owing to atopy has not been widely used in epidemiological studies on childhood asthma, especially to compare regions of the same country. The present study includes 1039 children from Cartagena, Spain (Mediterranean coast) and 663 from Madrid (centre of Spanish plateau) using the ISAAC phase II methodology (questionnaire and prick test to the most common allergens). While there were no differences in asthma symptoms between school children (aged 10-11 yr) from Madrid and Cartagena, atopy to any allergen was significantly higher in those from Madrid (40.9% vs. 29.3%, respectively, p < 0.0001). However, children from Madrid were mainly positive to pollen allergy whereas those from Cartagena were positive for mite allergy. PAF of all the different asthma symptoms owing to atopy (any positive skin test) and PAF of current wheezing owing to a more severe atopy (three positive wheals) were higher in children from Cartagena than those from Madrid (45.5% vs. 28.6% and 14.2% vs. 6.2%, respectively). Per cent of previous year wheezing attributable to atopy to specific allergens varied among those cities and was higher for D. pteronissinus, D. farinae, cat, and olive tree in children from Cartagena, and--conversely--higher for mixed grasses, mixed trees and Alternaria in those from Madrid. All of these differences remained significant even after adjusting for risk factors. PAF for asthma owing to atopy could be very different within the same country, probably depending on the allergen supply which may depend on environmental factors such as the climate.
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20
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Hunninghake GM, Soto-Quiros ME, Avila L, Ly NP, Liang C, Sylvia JS, Klanderman BJ, Silverman EK, Celedón JC. Sensitization to Ascaris lumbricoides and severity of childhood asthma in Costa Rica. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2007; 119:654-61. [PMID: 17336615 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaci.2006.12.609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 120] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2006] [Revised: 11/30/2006] [Accepted: 12/04/2006] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Little is known about sensitization (defined as a positive IgE) to helminths and disease severity in patients with asthma. OBJECTIVES To examine the relationship between sensitization (defined as a positive IgE) to Ascaris lumbricoides and measures of asthma morbidity and severity in a Costa Rican population with low prevalence of parasitic infection but high prevalence of parasitic exposure. METHODS Cross-sectional study of 439 children (ages 6 to 14 years) with asthma. Linear regression and logistic regression were used for the multivariate statistical analysis. RESULTS After adjustment for parental education and other covariates, sensitization to Ascaris lumbricoides was associated with having at least 1 positive skin test to allergens (odds ratio, 5.15; 95% CI, 2.36-11.21; P < .001), increased total serum IgE and eosinophils in peripheral blood, reductions in FEV(1) and FEV(1)/forced vital capacity, increased airway responsiveness and bronchodilator responsiveness, and hospitalizations for asthma in the previous year (odds ratio, 3.08; 95% CI, 1.23-7.68; P = .02). CONCLUSION Sensitization to Ascaris lumbricoides is associated with increased severity and morbidity of asthma among children in Costa Rica. This association is likely mediated by an increased degree of atopy among children with asthma who are sensitized to Ascaris. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS In areas with a low prevalence of helminthiasis such as Costa Rica, Ascaris sensitization may be an important marker of severe atopy and disease morbidity in children with asthma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gary M Hunninghake
- Channing Laboratory, Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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21
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Garcia-Marcos L, Canflanca IM, Garrido JB, Varela ALS, Garcia-Hernandez G, Guillen Grima F, Gonzalez-Diaz C, Carvajal-Urueña I, Arnedo-Pena A, Busquets-Monge RM, Morales Suarez-Varela M, Blanco-Quiros A. Relationship of asthma and rhinoconjunctivitis with obesity, exercise and Mediterranean diet in Spanish schoolchildren. Thorax 2007; 62:503-8. [PMID: 17251311 PMCID: PMC2117202 DOI: 10.1136/thx.2006.060020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 125] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although several studies have investigated the influence of diet on asthma in schoolchildren, none of them has evaluated how obesity can modify this effect. A study was undertaken to evaluate the association of various foods and a Mediterranean diet with the prevalence of asthma and rhinoconjunctivitis, adjusting for obesity and exercise. METHODS A cross-sectional study was performed in 20 106 schoolchildren aged 6-7 years from eight Spanish cities. Using the ISAAC phase III questionnaire, parents reported chest and nose symptoms, food intake, weight, height and other factors, including exercise. A Mediterranean diet score was developed. A distinction was made between current occasional asthma (COA) and current severe asthma (CSA). RESULTS Independent of the amount of exercise, each Mediterranean score unit had a small but protective effect on CSA in girls (adjusted OR 0.90, 95% CI 0.82 to 0.98). Exercise was a protective factor for COA and rhinoconjunctivitis in girls and boys (the more exercise, the more protection). Obesity was a risk factor for CSA in girls (adjusted OR 2.35, 95% CI 1.51 to 3.64). Individually, a more frequent intake (1-2 times/week and>or=3 times/week vs never/occasionally) of seafood (adjusted ORs 0.63 (95% CI 0.44 to 0.91) and 0.53 (95% CI 0.35 to 0.80)) and cereals (adjusted OR 0.56 (95% CI 0.30 to 1.02) and 0.39 (95% CI 0.23 to 0.68)) were protective factors for CSA, while fast food was a risk factor (adjusted ORs 1.64 (95% CI 1.28 to 2.10) and 2.26 (95% CI 1.09 to 4.68)). Seafood (adjusted ORs 0.74 (95% CI 0.60 to 0.92) and 0.67 (95% CI 0.53 to 0.85)) and fruit (adjusted ORs 0.76 (95% CI 0.60 to 0.97) and 0.71 (95% CI 0.57 to 0.88)) were protective factors for rhinoconjunctivitis. CONCLUSIONS A Mediterranean diet has a potentially protective effect in girls aged 6-7 years with CSA. Obesity is a risk factor for this type of asthma only in girls.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luis Garcia-Marcos
- Institute of Respiratory Health, University of Murcia, 30120 El Palmar, Murcia, and Department of Paediatrics, Donostia Hospital, San Sebastián, Spain.
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Ronchetti R, Rennerova Z, Barreto M, Villa MP. The prevalence of atopy in asthmatic children correlates strictly with the prevalence of atopy among nonasthmatic children. Int Arch Allergy Immunol 2006; 142:79-85. [PMID: 17016061 DOI: 10.1159/000096031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2006] [Accepted: 06/01/2006] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Because asthma preferentially burdens persons with atopy, atopy is simplistically considered a primary 'cause' of asthma. Yet at the population level, the percentage of asthma cases 'attributable' to atopy ranges from less than 10% to more than 60%. Seeking to understand the rationale for the variability of atopy-attributable cases of asthma, we systematically reviewed the results of our own previous epidemiological studies and several studies conducted by others in children. METHODS From each of the 37 random pediatric populations selected by a Medline search combining the key words 'IgE or skin tests or hypersensitivity, immediate' with 'epidemiological studies, cross-sectional, case-control, prevalence, longitudinal, epidemiology of asthma' (12 from our previous pediatric surveys and a further 25 reported from 19 studies in children), we extracted the population prevalence of asthma and atopy among asthmatic subjects and among the nonasthmatic part of the population. RESULTS No correlation was found between the prevalence of asthma (range 1.8-44.1%) and atopy (range 5.8-63.9%) in these 37 populations of children (r = 0.052, p = 0.761). Nevertheless, the prevalence of atopy among asthmatics strictly correlated with the prevalence of atopy in nonasthmatics (r = 0.900, p < 0.001, slope 1.364). CONCLUSION The prevalence of asthma and atopy varies worldwide and at various time points and independently undergoes the influence of powerful environmental factors. The almost perfect correlation we found between atopy in asthmatics and atopy in the nonasthmatic part of the childhood population shows that the prevalence of atopy in asthma depends on environmental factors that simultaneously induce atopy in asthmatic and nonasthmatic subjects.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Ronchetti
- Department of Pediatrics, Second School of Medicine, University La Sapienza, Rome, Italy.
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Kurukulaaratchy RJ, Matthews S, Arshad SH. Relationship between childhood atopy and wheeze: what mediates wheezing in atopic phenotypes? Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol 2006; 97:84-91. [PMID: 16892787 DOI: 10.1016/s1081-1206(10)61375-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The nature of the relationship between childhood wheeze and atopy remains uncertain. OBJECTIVE To characterize childhood wheeze among atopic phenotypes in a longitudinal birth cohort study. METHODS A whole population birth cohort (N = 1,456) was recruited in 1989. Children were seen at birth and at 1, 2, 4, and 10 years of age to obtain information on asthma and allergic disease development and relevant risk factors for these states. Skin prick testing at ages 4 (n = 980) and 10 (n = 1,036) years was used to define atopic phenotypes. Wheezing in these states was characterized, and logistic regression was used to identify independent risk factors for wheeze onset in different atopic phenotypes. RESULTS Wheeze ever occurred in 37% of never atopics, 38% of early childhood atopics, 65% of chronic childhood atopics, and 52% of delayed childhood atopics. Chronic childhood atopics had significant wheezing morbidity and bronchial hyperresponsiveness. Their wheezing was associated with male sex, early eczema, family history of eczema, and early tobacco exposure. Never atopic wheeze was related to maternal asthma, parental smoking, and respiratory tract infections. Exclusive breastfeeding protected against early childhood atopic wheeze. Maternal asthma, family history of urticaria, and dog ownership increased delayed childhood atopic wheeze. CONCLUSIONS In many respects, chronic childhood atopy is the atopic phenotype associated with the most significant forms of childhood wheezing. In such children, heritable drive, allergens, and synergy with other environmental triggers seem to be crucial determinants of wheeze onset. Where such sensitization is absent, numerous environmental factors plus genetic predisposition may assume importance for wheezing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramesh J Kurukulaaratchy
- The David Hide Asthma & Allergy Research Centre, St Mary's Hospital, Newport, Isle of Wight, England
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Carroll WD, Lenney W, Child F, Strange RC, Jones PW, Whyte MK, Primhak RA, Fryer AA. Asthma severity and atopy: how clear is the relationship? Arch Dis Child 2006; 91:405-9. [PMID: 16443614 PMCID: PMC2082729 DOI: 10.1136/adc.2005.088278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/18/2006] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The relationship between asthma severity and atopy is complex. Many studies have failed to show significant relationships between clinical severity or lung function and markers of atopic sensitisation. AIM To determine whether increasing asthma severity is related to atopic sensitisation in a population of children with asthma. METHODS A total of 400 children (7-18 years) with asthma were recruited as part of a multicentre study of the genetics of asthma. Detailed phenotypic data were collected on all participants. Associations between measures of asthma severity and atopic sensitisation were sought using multilevel models allowing variation at the individual and family level. RESULTS Children recruited to the study had a range of asthma severities, with just over a third having mild persistent asthma. The logarithm of total serum IgE was associated with increased asthma severity score, decreased FEV1, increased airways obstruction, risk of hospital admission, and inhaled steroid use. Increasing skin prick test reactivity to a panel of seven aeroallergens was associated with increased risk of hospital admission, use of an inhaled steroid, and airways obstruction. The results remained highly significant after corrections for age, gender, and birth order. CONCLUSIONS In children with asthma, increasing atopy is associated with increasing asthma severity. However, the relationships between asthma severity and skin prick tests, and asthma severity and total serum IgE values, appear subtly different.
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Affiliation(s)
- W D Carroll
- Department of Child Health, Derbyshire Children's Hospital, Mickleover, Derby, UK
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25
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Trevillian LF, Ponsonby AL, Dwyer T, Kemp A, Cochrane J, Lim LLY, Carmichael A. Infant sleeping environment and asthma at 7 years: a prospective cohort study. Am J Public Health 2006; 95:2238-45. [PMID: 16304135 PMCID: PMC1449513 DOI: 10.2105/ajph.2004.047191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES We investigated the role of infant bedding items, as part of a composite bedding environment, in the development of childhood wheezing. METHODS This prospective cohort investigation involved 863 children who participated in an infant survey in 1988 and an asthma study in Tasmania, Australia, in 1995. The derived 3 composite infant bedding categories corresponded to increasing numbers of house dust mite (HDM)-rich bedding items used. Outcomes measured included recent and frequent wheezing. RESULTS Composite infant bedding used was associated with recent wheezing. Effects increased at increasing levels of HDM-rich bedding items used. Effects were further enhanced by home environmental factors of bedroom heating, recent bedroom painting, and absence of bedroom carpeting. When any 2 or more of these environmental factors were present, a strong dose-response relationship was evident. CONCLUSIONS Our results show that bedding exposures in infancy are prospectively associated with childhood wheezing and that home environmental conditions may modify this association.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leigh F Trevillian
- National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health, Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
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Joseph CLM, Williams LK, Ownby DR, Saltzgaber J, Johnson CC. Applying epidemiologic concepts of primary, secondary, and tertiary prevention to the elimination of racial disparities in asthma. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2006; 117:233-40; quiz 241-2. [PMID: 16461121 PMCID: PMC1904504 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaci.2005.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2005] [Revised: 10/25/2005] [Accepted: 11/01/2005] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Despite medical and scientific advances, racial and ethnic disparities persist in US asthma morbidity and mortality rates. Progress in the elimination of these disparities will involve disentangling the contribution of social constructs, such as race, socioeconomic status, and culture, from that of the physical environment and genetic susceptibility. One approach to reducing asthma disparities is through the traditional disease prevention stages of intervention. As such, primary prevention targets reductions in asthma incidence; secondary prevention is the mitigation of established disease and involves disease detection, management, and control; and tertiary prevention is the reduction of complications caused by severe disease. Once causative factors at each level of disease prevention are understood, this knowledge can be translated into clinical practice and public health policy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine L M Joseph
- Department of Biostatistics and Research Epidemiology, Henry Ford Health System, Detroit, MI 48202, USA.
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Abstract
The 'allergic march' is a term used to describe an individual's progress from one clinical manifestation of allergy to another, with age. Not all sensitized children will join the allergic march, but it appears that individuals who do not join the allergic march have a greater risk of displaying symptoms of allergic disease in adulthood. Consequently, there is a need for early diagnosis of allergy in children. Immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibody quantification is increasingly used for this purpose. However, rather than making a diagnosis based on single positive IgE antibody results only, it may be more efficient to test a profile of airborne and food allergens and use the sum of IgE antibody concentrations > or =3.5 kUA/l in combination with the number of allergens that elicit positive results tests. Allergic diseases often co-exist in patients, and the combination of several exposures at a given time (the allergen load) is related to disease severity. Therefore, a reduction of the allergen load is a key to successful treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Wickman
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, National Institute of Environmental Medicine, Stockholm, Sweden
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28
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Abstract
Allergic disease has become a major burden in westernized societies because of a recent rise in its prevalence. Approximately one-third of children suffer from an allergic disease, with the prevalence varying from 15 to 20% for atopic dermatitis, 7 to 10% for asthma and 15 to 20% for allergic rhinitis and conjunctivitis. Despite the increase, it is important not to assume a diagnosis of allergy on the basis of symptoms alone, because allergic and nonallergic conditions may present with similar symptoms. An accurate allergy diagnosis is important in order to treat the patient most appropriately and to potentially prevent or delay the development of allergic disease. A good clinical history is the starting point for accurate allergy diagnosis but is not unequivocal. The European Academy of Allergy and Clinical Immunology has recognized the importance of allergy testing and therefore developed evidence-based recommendations on allergy testing in children. Widespread adherence to these recommendations should improve the quality of care for allergy patients. Cooperation between all healthcare professionals involved in the treatment of allergy patients is also a key to improve our response to the allergy epidemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- P A Eigenmann
- Department of Pediatrics, University Hospital of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
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Abstract
Asthma, wheeze, eczema, and, to a certain extent, rhinitis are very common conditions among children. The prevalence of allergic disease in the general population has increased alarmingly over the past 25 years, particularly in Western industrialised countries. However, it is important to remember that the symptoms often associated with allergy can have other aetiologies. Evidence suggests that in most circumstances, only 30-40% of chronic allergic-type symptoms are due to allergy. Accurate diagnosis of the presence of allergy is therefore an important issue, particularly given the interventions that such a diagnosis may initiate. In this review, we examine management options for allergy, provide the evidence as to what proportions of patients with common allergic-type symptoms are actually allergic, and list other causes of such symptoms. The importance of allergy testing and the options available are described, particularly with reference to the role of the non-allergist.
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Affiliation(s)
- S T Holgate
- Division of Infection, Inflammation and Repair, School of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK.
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30
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Wickman M, Lilja G, Söderström L, van Hage-Hamsten M, van HageHamsten M, Ahlstedt S. Quantitative analysis of IgE antibodies to food and inhalant allergens in 4-year-old children reflects their likelihood of allergic disease. Allergy 2005; 60:650-7. [PMID: 15813811 DOI: 10.1111/j.1398-9995.2004.00764.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND It is well established that early diagnosis of allergic disease is warranted. METHODS In a prospective birth cohort study (BAMSE) 3743 children at 4 years of age were included. Children were classified as having any allergic disease, e.g. asthma, suspected allergic rhinitis (suspAR), eczema or oro-gastro-intestinal symptoms with questionnaire. Blood was obtained from 2612 of these children and analysed for IgE antibodies (ab) towards 14 common food and airborne allergens. RESULTS Positive IgE ab results were found in 38% of the children with any allergic disease, whereas such IgE ab results were found in 17% among those without any allergic disease. Furthermore, among children with any allergic disease the median summated IgE ab levels were 10.7 kU(A)/l compared with 1.5 kU(A)/l among those without such symptoms. The highest IgE ab levels were found to birch, peanut, cat and horse. When the sum of the IgE-ab levels towards the selected allergens was at least 34 kU(A)/l, or, alternatively, more than four allergen tests were positive, there was a 75% likelihood of identifying the individual with any allergic disease. To identify those with asthma, as well as those with suspAR, a significant interaction was found for the combination of the sum of IgE-ab levels and number of allergens positive at test. For eczema only, the number of positive allergens at test was associated to the likelihood of such disease. CONCLUSIONS In children, 4 years of age, allergic disease was frequently not associated with the presence of single positive IgE antibody results, whereas increased IgE ab levels were significantly more prevalent among those with allergic disease. Thus, testing a certain profile of airborne and food allergens, and utilizing the sum of the IgE-ab levels in combination with the number of allergens positive at tests, may represent a more efficient diagnostic tool then to use just single positive IgE-ab results.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Wickman
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, Stockholm County Council, Stockholm, Sweden
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31
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Ramsey CD, Celedón JC, Sredl DL, Weiss ST, Cloutier MM. Predictors of disease severity in children with asthma in Hartford, Connecticut. Pediatr Pulmonol 2005; 39:268-75. [PMID: 15668933 DOI: 10.1002/ppul.20177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Childhood asthma is a major public health problem in the United States, particularly among minority populations. The aim of our study was to examine the relationship among ethnicity, allergen sensitization, spirometric measures, and asthma severity in children with mild to severe asthma who received their medical care in Hartford, Connecticut. Four hundred thirty-eight children aged 4-18 years who were enrolled in an asthma care program (Easy Breathing) in Hartford and who were referred for spirometry and allergy skin testing participated in this cross-sectional study. Risk factors for increased asthma severity as defined by National Asthma Education and Prevention Program (NAEPP) guidelines were determined using multinomial logistic regression. Of 438 children, 383 (87.4%) had mild to moderate asthma, and 292 (66.7%) had at least one positive skin test to allergens. Forced expiratory volume in 1 sec/forced vital capacity (FEV1/FVC) was significantly decreased in children with severe vs. mild asthma (80.7 vs. 87.3, respectively). In a multivariate analysis, predictors of severe asthma included African-American ethnicity (odds ratio (OR)=3.70, 95% confidence interval (CI)=1.10-12.42), Puerto Rican ethnicity (OR=3.55, 95% CI=1.18-10.67), sensitization to cockroach allergen (OR=4.34, 95% CI=1.73-10.86), and decreased FEV1/FVC (OR for every 1% decrease in FEV1/FVC=1.06, 95% CI=1.02-1.11). In conclusion, among children with asthma in Hartford and its surrounding communities, predictors of disease severity included African-American ethnicity, Puerto Rican ethnicity, sensitization to cockroach allergen, and decreased FEV1/FVC. Our findings suggest that FEV1/FVC is a useful indicator of asthma severity in children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clare D Ramsey
- Channing Laboratory, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, USA.
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32
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Heymann PW, Carper HT, Murphy DD, Platts-Mills TAE, Patrie J, McLaughlin AP, Erwin EA, Shaker MS, Hellems M, Peerzada J, Hayden FG, Hatley TK, Chamberlain R. Viral infections in relation to age, atopy, and season of admission among children hospitalized for wheezing. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2004; 114:239-47. [PMID: 15316497 PMCID: PMC7185400 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaci.2004.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 310] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Viral respiratory tract infections and atopy are associated with attacks of wheezing during childhood. However, information about the relationship between viral infections and atopy among children whose attacks of wheezing lead to hospitalization is unclear. OBJECTIVE To evaluate the prevalence of viral respiratory tract pathogens among infants and children hospitalized for wheezing and to analyze the results in relation to the patient's age, atopic characteristics, and season of admission. METHODS This was a case-control study of children (age 2 months to 18 years) admitted for wheezing to the University of Virginia Medical Center over a period of 12 months. Children without wheezing were enrolled as controls. Nasal secretions were evaluated for viral pathogens by using cultures, PCR tests, and antigen detection. Total IgE and specific IgE antibody to common aeroallergens was measured in serum. RESULTS Seventy percent of children hospitalized for wheezing before age 3 years (n=79) were admitted between December and March, whereas 46% of children age 3 to 18 years (n=54) were hospitalized between September and November. Among children younger than 3 years, viral pathogens were detected in 84% (66/79) of wheezing children and 55% (42/77) of controls (P <.001). Respiratory syncytial virus was the dominant pathogen during the winter months, but rhinovirus was more common during other months. Total serum IgE levels were generally low, and values from wheezing and control subjects overlapped considerably. Among children 3 years and older, 61% (33/54) of subjects admitted for wheezing tested positive for virus (predominantly rhinovirus), compared with 21% (12/56) of controls (P <.001). The total serum IgE values among wheezing children (geometric mean, 386 IU/mL; 95% CI, 259-573) were substantially elevated compared with those of controls (geometric mean, 38 IU/mL; 95% CI, 26-56; P <.001). A significantly higher percentage of wheezing children compared with controls was sensitized to at least 1 of the inhaled allergens tested: 84% (36/43) compared with 33% (15/45; P <.001). The atopic characteristics of wheezing children who tested positive or negative for virus were similar. CONCLUSIONS Viral infections were the dominant risk factor for wheezing among children hospitalized before 3 years of age. By comparison, a large majority of the wheezing children age 3 to 18 years had striking atopic characteristics that may be critical as a risk factor for hospitalization and an adverse response to viral infections, especially infections caused by rhinovirus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter W Heymann
- Department of Pediatrics,University of Virginia Health System, Charlottesville, VA 22908-0386, USA.
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Kurukulaaratchy RJ, Fenn M, Matthews S, Arshad SH. Characterisation of atopic and non-atopic wheeze in 10 year old children. Thorax 2004; 59:563-8. [PMID: 15223861 PMCID: PMC1747084 DOI: 10.1136/thx.2003.010462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Wheezing occurs in both atopic and non-atopic children. The characteristics of atopic and non-atopic wheeze in children at 10 years of age were assessed and attempts made to identify whether different mechanisms underlie these states. METHODS Children were seen at birth and at 1, 2, 4 and 10 years of age in a whole population birth cohort study (n = 1456; 1373 seen at 10 years). Information was collected prospectively on inherited and early life environmental risk factors for wheezing. Skin prick testing, spirometry, and methacholine bronchial challenge were conducted at 10 years. Wheezing at 10 years of age was considered atopic or non-atopic depending on the results of the skin prick test. Independent significant risk factors for atopic and non-atopic wheeze were determined by logistic regression. RESULTS Atopic (10.9%) and non-atopic (9.7%) wheeze were equally common at 10 years of age. Greater bronchial hyperresponsiveness (p<0.001) and airways obstruction (p = 0.011) occurred in children with atopic wheeze than in those with non-atopic wheeze at 10 years. Children with atopic wheeze more often received treatment (p<0.001) or an asthma diagnosis for their disorder, although current morbidity at 10 years differed little for these states. Maternal asthma and recurrent chest infections at 2 years were independently significant factors for developing non-atopic wheeze. For atopic wheeze, sibling asthma, eczema at 1 year, rhinitis at 4 years, and male sex were independently significant. CONCLUSIONS Non-atopic wheeze is as common as atopic wheeze in children aged 10 years, but treatment is more frequent in those with atopic wheeze. Different risk factor profiles appear relevant to the presence of atopic and non-atopic wheeze at 10 years of age.
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Affiliation(s)
- R J Kurukulaaratchy
- The David Hide Asthma and Allergy Research Centre, St Mary's Hospital, Newport, Isle of Wight PO30 5TG, UK
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34
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Wagner CW. Pathophysiology and diagnosis of asthma. Nurs Clin North Am 2004; 38:561-70. [PMID: 14763360 DOI: 10.1016/s0029-6465(03)00107-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
The process of asthma includes swelling, bronchoconstriction, and excess mucus production driven by the redundant nature of the inflammatory process. Untreated or undertreated, this process has the potential to cause airway remodeling and the permanent loss of pulmonary function. It is essential that all health care professionals involved in the care of patients with asthma have as their major goal the treatment and prevention of the inflammatory process.
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Belessis Y, Dixon S, Thomsen A, Duffy B, Rawlinson W, Henry R, Morton J. Risk factors for an intensive care unit admission in children with asthma. Pediatr Pulmonol 2004; 37:201-9. [PMID: 14966813 PMCID: PMC7167684 DOI: 10.1002/ppul.10443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
An admission to an intensive care unit (ICU) with asthma is a marker of asthma severity and may be a precursor of asthma death. The aim of this study was to investigate risk factors for acute severe asthma needing an ICU admission. We hypothesized that children admitted to the ICU represent a severe phenotype with identifiable premorbid clinical features. The study was case-control in design. One hundred and forty-one children were studied. Seventy children admitted to the ICU and 71 children admitted to the general medical ward served as cases and controls, respectively. Children were aged between 1-16 years. They underwent skin prick allergy testing, and had a nasopharyngeal aspirate and serology performed to screen for respiratory pathogens. Their parents completed an asthma and allergy symptom questionnaire and the Newcastle Asthma Knowledge Questionnaire (NAKQ). On univariate analysis, an admission to the ICU was more likely in children with 1) "frequent episodic" or "persistent" background asthma; 2) three or more previous admissions for asthma; 3) one or more asthma admissions in the previous 12 months; 4) three or more presentations to the Emergency Department (ED) in the preceding 12 months; 5) three or more positive responses on skin prick allergy testing; 6) an elevated IgE level; 7) oxygen saturation on presentation < or =91%; 8) longer duration of asthma; 9) lower level of maternal education; 10) an admission during autumn; 11) three or more siblings; and 12) being prescribed antibiotics. Risk factors that remained significant on multivariate analysis were three or more presentations to the ED in the preceding 12 months (P=0.003), an elevated IgE level (P=0.01), oxygen saturation on presentation < or =91% (P=0.003), and longer asthma duration (P=0.02). ICU patients took longer to see a doctor and to commence oral steroids. No differences were found between cases and controls in the proportion taking preventer therapy (58% vs. 52%), provided with a written asthma action plan (32% vs. 25%), or in whom spirometry or peak flow was measured (28% vs. 42%). However, rates were low in both groups. Parental asthma knowledge was generally poor. This study identified risk factors for an ICU admission in children with asthma. A potentially preventable risk factor is a history of multiple ED presentations in the past year. Specialist referral of children with multiple ED presentations may improve asthma control and reduce the risk of an ICU admission. Background asthma management remains suboptimal in children needing hospitalization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yvonne Belessis
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Sydney Children's Hospital, Randwick, New South Wales, Australia.
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Glasgow NJ, Ponsonby AL, Yates R, Beilby J, Dugdale P. Proactive asthma care in childhood: general practice based randomised controlled trial. BMJ 2003; 327:659. [PMID: 14500440 PMCID: PMC196449 DOI: 10.1136/bmj.327.7416.659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To assess the feasibility and effectiveness of a general practice based, proactive system of asthma care in children. DESIGN Randomised controlled trial with cluster sampling by general practice. SETTING General practices in the northern region of the Australian Capital Territory. PARTICIPANTS 174 children with moderate to severe asthma who attended 24 general practitioners. INTERVENTION System of structured asthma care (the 3+ visit plan), with participating families reminded to attend the general practitioner. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Process measures: rates for asthma consultations with general practitioner, written asthma plans, completion of the 3+ visit plan; clinical measures: rates for emergency department visits for asthma, days absent from school, symptom-free days, symptoms over the past year, activity limitation over the past year, and asthma drug use over the past year; spirometric lung function measures before and after cold air challenge. RESULTS Intervention group children had significantly more asthma related consultations (odds ratio for three or more asthma related consultations 3.8 (95% confidence interval 1.9 to 7.6; P = 0.0001), written asthma plans (2.2 (1.2 to 4.1); P = 0.01), and completed 3+ visit plans (24.2 (5.7 to 103.2); P = 0.0001) than control children and a mean reduction in measurements of forced expiratory volume in one second after cold air challenge of 2.6% (1.7 to 3.5); P = 0.0001) less than control children. The number needed to treat (benefit) for one additional written asthma action plan was 5 (3 to 41) children. Intervention group children had lower emergency department attendance rates for asthma (odds ratio 0.4 (0.2 to 1.04); P = 0.06) and less speech limiting wheeze (0.2 (0.1 to 0.4); P = 0.0001) than control children and were more likely to use a spacer (2.8 (1.6 to 4.7); P = 0.0001). No differences occurred in number of days absent from school or symptom-free day scores. CONCLUSIONS Proactive care with active recall for children with moderate to severe asthma is feasible in general practice and seems to be beneficial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas J Glasgow
- Academic Unit of General Practice and Community Care, Canberra Clinical School of the University of Sydney, PO Box 254, Canberra, ACT 2614, Australia.
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Høst A, Andrae S, Charkin S, Diaz-Vázquez C, Dreborg S, Eigenmann PA, Friedrichs F, Grinsted P, Lack G, Meylan G, Miglioranzi P, Muraro A, Nieto A, Niggemann B, Pascual C, Pouech MG, Rancé F, Rietschel E, Wickman M. Allergy testing in children: why, who, when and how? Allergy 2003; 58:559-69. [PMID: 12823111 DOI: 10.1034/j.1398-9995.2003.00238.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 140] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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Siroux V, Oryszczyn MP, Paty E, Kauffmann F, Pison C, Vervloet D, Pin I. Relationships of allergic sensitization, total immunoglobulin E and blood eosinophils to asthma severity in children of the EGEA Study. Clin Exp Allergy 2003; 33:746-51. [PMID: 12801307 DOI: 10.1046/j.1365-2222.2003.01674.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although allergy is highly associated with childhood asthma, it is not well known if there is a relationship between the intensity of allergic sensitization and asthma severity. OBJECTIVE The objectives of the study were to examine the relationships between several markers of allergy and asthma severity in asthmatic children included in the Epidemiological study on the Genetics and Environment of Asthma, bronchial hyper-responsiveness and atopy (EGEA). METHODS The population comprised 216 asthmatic children below 16 years of age. Total IgE and blood eosinophil counts were measured and skin prick tests to 11 aeroallergens were performed. The intensity of the allergic sensitization was assessed by the number of positive skin prick tests and by skin weal sizes. Asthma severity was measured with four criteria: a clinical severity score, history of hospitalization for asthma, FEV1% predicted and inhaled steroid use in the last 12 months. RESULTS Most of the children were sensitized to at least one aeroallergen (88.2%). Atopy was not related to the severity of asthma, except for a tendency for a more severe clinical score in non-atopic children. The type and intensity of the allergic sensitization were not associated with any criteria of asthma severity. Total IgE was significantly increased in children treated with inhaled corticosteroids and in children ever hospitalized for asthma (P-values 0.009 and 0.04, respectively). Eosinophil counts were not related to asthma severity. CONCLUSION Our results suggest that severe childhood asthma may be related to a high level of total IgE but not to blood eosinophil counts. The lack of positive relationships between both atopy and the intensity of allergic sensitization with asthma severity supports the hypothesis of different risk factors being associated with asthma and with the severity of asthma.
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Affiliation(s)
- V Siroux
- Département de Médecine Aiguë Spécialisée, CHU Grenoble, France.
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Abstract
BACKGROUND The reasons for the increase in childhood asthma over time are unclear. The indoor environment is of particular concern. An adverse role for synthetic bedding on asthma development in childhood has been suggested by cross-sectional studies that have found an association between synthetic pillow use and childhood wheeze. Prospective data on infant bedding have not been available. METHODS Bedding data at 1 month of age were available from an infant survey for children who were participating in a 1995 follow-up study (N = 863; 78% traced). The 1995 follow-up was embedded in a larger cross-sectional survey involving 6,378 seven year olds in Tasmania (N = 92% of eligible). Outcome measures included respiratory symptoms as defined in the International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood protocol. Frequent wheeze was defined as more than 12 wheeze episodes over the past year compared with no wheeze. RESULTS Synthetic pillow use at 1 month of age was associated with frequent wheeze at age 7 (adjusted relative risk [aRR] = 2.5; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.2-5.5) independent of childhood exposure. Current synthetic pillow and quilt use was strongly associated with frequent wheeze (aRR = 5.2; CI = 1.3-20.6). Substantial trends were evident for an association of increasing number of synthetic bedding items with frequent wheeze and with increasing wheeze frequency. Among children with asthma, the age of onset of asthma occurred earlier if synthetic bedding was used in infancy. CONCLUSIONS In this cohort, synthetic bedding was strongly and consistently associated with frequent childhood wheeze. The association did not appear to be attributable to bedding choice as part of an asthma management strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne-Louise Ponsonby
- National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health, Australian National University, Canberra, Australia.
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Siebers R, Fitzharris P, Crane J. Feather bedding and allergic disease in children: a cover story? Clin Exp Allergy 2002; 32:1119-23. [PMID: 12190645 DOI: 10.1046/j.1365-2745.2002.01475.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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Ponsonby AL, Gatenby P, Glasgow N, Mullins R, Hurwitz M, McDonald T. The association between synthetic bedding and adverse respiratory outcomes among skin-prick test positive and skin-prick test negative children. Allergy 2002; 57:247-53. [PMID: 11906340 DOI: 10.1034/j.1398-9995.2002.1s3234.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Synthetic bedding has been associated with increased child wheeze and also higher allergen levels in several studies. We aimed to examine whether the association between synthetic bedding and adverse respiratory outcomes was more evident among skin-prick test (SPT) positive children. METHODS A cross-sectional survey involving a population sample of 758 (81% of eligible) school children aged 8-10 years from randomly selected schools in the Australian Capital Territory in 1999. Parental questionnaires for ISAAC respiratory symptoms and child bedding were obtained. SPT results of 10 common allergens were available on 722 of the subjects (77% of those eligible). Synthetic pillow or quilt use was termed synthetic upper bedding. RESULTS Synthetic quilt use was associated with asthma (Adjusted Odds Ratio 1.67 (1.05, 2.65)), recent wheeze (AOR 1.63 (1.03, 2.59)) and allergic rhinoconjunctivitis (AOR 2.11 (1.33, 3.34)) among SPT-positive children. However, these associations were not apparent for SPT-negative children. Similarly, increasing synthetic upper bedding use was associated with more than 12 episodes of wheeze among SPT-positive children (AOR 1.69 (1.08, 2.64), P=0.02, per category) but not SPT-negative children (AOR 0.77 (0.26, 2.21), P=0.6, per category). CONCLUSION The apparent association between synthetic upper bedding and adverse respiratory outcomes was evident among SPT-positive but not SPT-negative children. Prospective intervention studies that aim to examine the effect of upper bedding composition on child asthma among SPT-positive children are required.
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Affiliation(s)
- A-L Ponsonby
- National Center for Epidemiology and Population Health, Australian National University
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