ABSTRACT

Aim:

An inverse association between markers of exposure to orofecal pathogens such as hepatitis A and allergic disease has been reported. However, the findings of studies have not been consistent. In this study we compared to the frequency of allergic symptoms and asthma in children with hepatitis A seropositive and seronegative.

Materials and Methods:

This study was performed in 499 children admitted to our Hospital and in whom we determined specific IgG in serum to hepatitis A virus (HAV). The demographical findings of the children were recorded. They were examined by using ISAAC (International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood) questionnaire.

Results:

The mean age of 449 children was 9.28±2.24 (1-16y) years. 47.7% of the children were female and 52.3% were male. Anti-HAV IgG serology was found positive in 261 children and negative in 238 children. The frequency of physician-diagnosed asthma that kept them awake at night ≤1 per week on average by this itchy rash were found to be high in children with hepatitis A seronegative. Attacks of wheezing in the last 12 months, speech-limiting wheeze and rhinoconjunctivitis in the last 12 months were high in children with hepatitis A seropositive.

Conclusion:

The frequency of physician-diagnosed asthma is higher in children with hepatitis A seronegative. Significant differences between the two groups in terms of allergic symptoms were observed.