The value of cord serum interferon-gamma estimation in the prediction of first year allergies

Abstract

Background: It was previously assumed that interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) underexpression in newly born infants could be a risk factor for atopic diseases. Objective: We sought to investigate the value of cord serum IFN-γ in the prediction of infantile allergy and its possible correlations with other relevant markers. Methods: Eighty mother-newborn pairs were enrolled consecutively at delivery. The family history of allergy was inquired about and then cord blood was tested for eosinophil and basophil counts and serum total IgE, IgD, and IFN-γ. The infants were followed up for one year for subsequent development of allergic disorders. Results: Twenty-eight infants (35%) developed first year allergies, of whom 19 (68%) had a positive family history of atopy. Atopic dermatitis constituted 57% of the forms of allergy detected. Cord serum IFN-γ concentration at birth was significantly lower in infants who developed allergies during the first year of life (2.8±2 pg/ml) as compared to those who did not (13.6±6.1 pg/ml, p < 0.05). Only 11 cord serum samples (14%) contained detectable levels of total IgE. However, 64% of neonates with measurable cord serum IgE developed allergy subsequently. Cord serum IgD concentrations were below the detection limit (5 mg/L) of the method employed. Cord blood basophil, eosinophil and total leucocytic counts were negatively correlated to cord serum IFN-γ levels. Conclusions: Our findings imply that the family history of atopy is still the most important predictor of allergy. Estimation of cord serum IFN-γ in genetically predisposed babies might raise the predictive value.

Keywords: IFN-γ; cord blood; prediction; allergy; Ig-E; Ig-D; eosinophils; basophils; infants

Egypt J Pediatr Allergy Immunol 2005; 3(1):10-18