Abstract
Aim: To explore the correlation between ETS exposure and total serum IgE level and at least one positive skin-prick test (SPT) on common aeroallergens in asthmatic children. Method: 527 children (6-16 years), with asthma were recruited at a hospital admission for acute asthma exacerbation. A questionnaire was filled out by the physician concerning the history of asthma and family smoking status. Based on the results, children were divided into groups: ETS exposed (ETSE=337) and ETS free children (ETSF=190). Total IgE serum level was drawn and a SPT was performed on all children. Results: 49.9% were boys and 50.1% were girls, average age 10.83±2.85 years. There were 63.9% ETSE children, with 39.5% living with one and 24.5% with two smoking parents, 43.3% with smoking mothers and 45.2% with smoking fathers. The mean value of IgE was 461.73±547.58 IU/mL. The mean IgE was significantly higher in children living with one or both smoking parents, compared to ETSF children (p<0.001). The value of IgE increased positively with the increased number of smokers in the family (p<0.001). Mean values of IgE in children with solo smoking mothers were highest (F=12.64, p<0.001) compared to the children with solo smoking fathers, both smoking parents and ETSF children. There were 67.2% children with at least one positive SPT. The percentage of children with positive SPT increased positively three to four times with the increased number of smokers in the family (χ2=38.092, p<0.001). Conclusion: ETSE children had higher values of total IgE and a higher percentage of positive SPT. It is necessary to protect children with asthma from ETS.
- © 2014 ERS
