Association of cystic fibrosis with allergy.
Immediate skin hypersensitivity to various inhalant allergens was present in 59% of 123 children with cystic fibrosis (CF), a much higher percentage than in the general population. This is consistent with the idea that atopy arises as a result of impaired handling of antigen at mucosal surfaces. The allergic CF children had more chest infections, a worse chest x-ray appearance, and lower peak expiratory flow rates. Allergic diseases were also frequent in the CF obligate heterozygotes (32% of mothers and 26% of fathers). It is suggested that the heterozygotes may also have a mucosal abnormality resulting in defective antigen handling.
D000293:Adolescent; D000485:Allergens; D001230:Aspergillus / Q000276:immunology; D001942:Breast Feeding; D002648:Child; D002963:Cladosporium / Q000276:immunology; D003550:Cystic Fibrosis / Q000150:complications*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D006967:Hypersensitivity / Q000150:complications* / Q000235:genetics; D006969:Hypersensitivity, Immediate; D007223:Infant; D007428:Intradermal Tests; D008176:Lung Volume Measurements; D008297:Male; D010366:Peak Expiratory Flow Rate; D012141:Respiratory Tract Infections / Q000150:complications; D006255:Rhinitis, Allergic, Seasonal / Q000150:complications
D000485:Allergens