The association between alcohol consumption and contact sensitization in Danish adults: the Glostrup Allergy Study.
BACKGROUND
Population-based epidemiological studies have indicated that alcohol consumption is associated with IgE-mediated immune diseases (i.e. allergic rhinitis, asthma and urticaria). These studies have been strongly supported by several immunological studies. Furthermore, an inhibitory effect of alcohol consumption on the development of delayed-type hypersensitivity has been shown in healthy controls. However, a possible association between contact sensitization and alcohol consumption in a general population has never been reported.


OBJECTIVE
To investigate whether alcohol consumption is associated with contact sensitization in a general population.


METHODS
In 1990, self-reported consumption of alcohol and patch testing results were assessed in 1112 subjects, aged 15-69 years, participating in a population-based cross-sectional study in Glostrup, Denmark. In 1998, they were invited to a follow-up and 734 were re-examined (participation rate 69.0%). Adjustment for potential confounders was performed by using logistic regression analyses.


RESULTS
Women who reported no consumption of alcoholic drinks per week were more likely to develop contact sensitization (adjusted odds ratio 2.12, 95% confidence interval 0.98-4.61) during a 8-year follow-up period. A positive trend among women was detected (P=0.045).


CONCLUSIONS
These data support the hypothesis that alcohol consumption leads to IgE-mediated immune responses rather than delayed-type hypersensitivity reactions. It is probable that alcohol consumption prevents the development of contact sensitization. Further epidemiological studies are warranted.
Thyssen
J P
JP
National Allergy Research Centre, Department of Dermatology, Gentofte University Hospital, Ledreborg Allé 10, 1. 2820 Gentofte, Denmark. jacpth01@genh.regionh.dk
Nielsen
N H
NH
Linneberg
A
A
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000428:Alcohol Drinking / Q000009:adverse effects*; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D003718:Denmark / Q000453:epidemiology; D017449:Dermatitis, Allergic Contact / Q000209:etiology*; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D006969:Hypersensitivity, Immediate / Q000209:etiology*; D007073:Immunoglobulin E / Q000276:immunology; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010328:Patch Tests; D012307:Risk Factors
D007073:Immunoglobulin E