|
|
 |
JACI Highlights - December 2006
Gillespie et al – Endotoxin exposure, wheezing, and rash in infancy in a New Zealand birth cohort
In the December 2006 issue of the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Gillespie and colleagues explore the associations between exposure to endotoxin and infant wheezing. Wheezing in infancy is common and is associated with small lungs, viral respiratory tract infection, and smoke exposure. Recently, increased levels of endotoxins in the home have also been associated with infant wheezing. Endotoxins are toxins present in bacteria that are released when the bacterial cell disintegrates. The authors found that endotoxins in the home are associated with airway and skin symptoms. Reducing endotoxin exposure might reduce infant wheezing and atopic dermatitis. Further study is needed to learn the long-term benefits.
<back>
|
