Purpose : The prevalence of atopic dermatitis (AD) has been increased in Korea. We aim to investigate the risk factors for development of AD in infants, especially those factors related to the family history.
Methods : The data from 542 infants in our prospective birth cohort study were analyzed. The data from their parent were collected by questionnaires and skin prick tests. They were regularly followed up at 1 year of age when the presence of AD and allergen sensitization was determined. Various factors such as sex, cesarean section delivery, duration of breast feeding, presence of siblings, vaccination, antibiotic use and pet keeping were also assessed.
Results : AD developed in 109 infants (20.4%). In univariate analysis, the presence of either maternal or paternal allergic diseases increased the risk for development of AD in their infants. Multivariate logistic analysis, however, showed that only the presence of maternal allergic diseases correlated with the development of AD (P=0.018). While AD developed in 14.7% in infants of parents with no allergic history, the incidences of AD in infants with a single parent allergy history and in those with 2 parent allergy history were 27.0% and 41.7%, respectively. Their adjusted relative risks (95% confidence intervals) were 1.85 (1.24-2.89) and 2.93 (1.68-4.96), respectively.
Conclusion : Parental allergic diseases, especially maternal allergic diseases, are possible risk factors for development of AD in Korean infants.
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