Mast cells in the placenta. Is there a relation to the development of atopic disease in infants before 18 months of age?
OBJECTIVE
To disclose a relation between the amount of mast cells in placenta and the development of atopic disease in children before 18 months of age.


METHODS
A prospective, descriptive study.


METHODS
Two obstetric departments at university hospitals.


METHODS
67 pairs of mothers and their newborn infants.


METHODS
Family history of atopic disease was taken. The amount of mast cells in placenta was counted. Follow-up questionnaires of the children were evaluated after 18 months.


RESULTS
The follow-up rate was 84%. The number of mast cells in placenta did not differ between atopic and non-atopic children.


CONCLUSIONS
A new predictor, the amount of mast cells in placenta was evaluated. In this study the amount of mast cells, in placenta was not predictive of the development of atopic disease before 18 months of age.
Mikkelsen
A L
AL
Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Copenhagen, Gentofte County Hospital, Hellerup, Denmark.
Felding
C
C
Larsen
L G
LG
Andersen
B
B
Sander
P
P
D002452:Cell Count; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D006969:Hypersensitivity, Immediate / Q000235:genetics / Q000276:immunology*; D007223:Infant; D008407:Mast Cells; D010920:Placenta / Q000276:immunology*; D011237:Predictive Value of Tests; D011247:Pregnancy; D011446:Prospective Studies