Food Allergy in Preterm Infants Treated at a Perinatal Mother and Children Center

Abstract

Introduction: This study aimed to identify the characteristics and indicators of food allergy (FA) in preterm infants treated at a perinatal mothers and children's center.

Method: A retrospective investigation of immediate-type FA (hen's eggs, cow's milk, wheat, and soybeans) was conducted using the medical records of infants born between April 1, 2012 and March 31, 2020, who were treated in the Perinatal Mothers and Children's Center of the University of the Ryukyus Hospital and attended the hospital from less than 37 weeks of gestation until the age of 1 year.

Results: From the records of 362 1-year-old children, 23 were found to have immediate-type FA. The causative foods were hen's eggs in 18 children, cow's milk in 4 children, soybeans in 3 children, and wheat in 2 children (including duplications). The prevalence of FA was higher in children born in autumn and winter, children with eczema observed on physical examination, and children with eosinophilia (≥7% and 750/μL) in the neonatal period.

Conclusion: General blood test findings in preterm infants may be useful for predicting the subsequent development of FA. Prevention of skin sensitization by eczema treatment and developmentally appropriate weaning progression are important in preventing the development of FA.