Predisposing factors and the development of reaginic allergy in infancy

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Abstract
In a prospective study of 58 [human] newborn infants of parents with reaginic allergy, 27 developed eczema and 28 positive prick tests to 1 or more of 6 antigens during the 1st yr of life. These reaginic manifestations were related to presymptomatic transient IgA [immunoglobulin A] deficiency. The development of positive skin tests was also related to HL-A A1 B8 and to season of birth. The order of frequency of positivity was Dermatophagoides, grass pollens, cat fur, feathers and cow''s milk. The skin tests were often positive in infants in whom serum IgE was not detected. The eczema disappeared and the skin tests became negative in some infants at the end of the 1st yr. Sensitization in the new-born period is apparently important in the subsequent development of disease.