Atopy and cystic fibrosis

Abstract
The prevalence of atopy within families of cystic fibrosis (CF) patients was investigated and its frequency compared in CF patients, their parents and their non-CF siblings. By studying families with 2 CF patients it was possible to evaluate the factors influencing the development of atopy in one CF patient relative to the other patient within the same family. A significant correlation with age (P < 0.001) for skin test positivity to common allergens within CF sibling pairs was observed. In 14/18 families studied, only the older CF patient was atopic. The presence of atopy in CF patients was independent of the atopic status of their parents.