Early-life respiratory viral infections, atopic sensitization, and risk of subsequent development of persistent asthma.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Severe lower respiratory infections (LRIs) and atopic sensitization have been identified as independent risk factors for asthma.

Objective

The nature of potential interactions between these risk factors was the subject of this study.

Methods

A community-based cohort of 198 children at high atopic risk was followed from birth to 5 years. All episodes of acute respiratory illness in the first year were recorded and postnasal aspirates were collected for viral identification. History of wheeze and asthma was collected annually, and atopy was assessed at 6 months, 2 years, and 5 years.

Results

A total of 815 episodes of acute respiratory illness were reported, and 33% were LRIs. Viruses were detected in 69% of aspirates, most commonly rhinoviruses (48.3%

SUBMITTER: Kusel MM 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7125611 | biostudies-literature | 2007 May

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature