Environmental Predictor of Allergen in Dust Samples and Its Relation to Total IgE Levels in Cord Blood in Cuernavaca, Morelos Mexico
Year: 2009
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: ISEE-0859 Background and Objective: House dust mite exposure is an important risk factor for sensitization and subsequent development of allergic disease in genetically susceptible patients. Early infancy seem to be a critical period for primary sensitization. Our objectives were to identify predictors of indoor allergen exposure and to evaluate if indoor allergen exposure has a relationship with cord blood IgE levels. Methods: In a cohort of 264 pregnant mothers, we evaluated prenatal environmental exposures by questionnaire. Allergen concentrations in dust samples (n = 264) and total IgE levels in cord blood (n = 184) were assessed. We used the lower limit of detection as a cutoff point to define increased allergen levels in dust samples and total IgE levels in cord blood as binary response (detectable vs. non detectable level (0.1 UI/ml)). We identified the main predictors of allergen levels in dust and used logistic regression models to predict total IgE levels in cord blood. Results: 51.5% of homes had at least 4 detectable allergens. The main predictors of allergen levels in dust were size of housing, maid in the home, number of cars that pass by the house, pets at home, years of use of mattress, and insecticide use (P < 0.1). Cord blood total IgE levels were significantly associated with Fel d 1 in dust (OR = 2.03, 95% CI 1.03 to 3.88) after adjustment for season. Conclusions: Many environmental factors related to household hygiene can influence allergen levels in homes. An increase in cat allergen in the home is associated with high levels of total IgE in umbilical cord.
Source: Epidemiology
Language: English
Subfield: Immunology and Allergy
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W2022213578