Relationship between atopic dermatitis and wheeze in the first year of life: analysis of a prospective cohort of Thai children.

BACKGROUND: Patients with atopic dermatitis show increased risk of concomitant respiratory symptoms such as wheeze and cough. However, limited data is available on respiratory symptoms in atopic dermatitis patients when the disease is in remission. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between atopic dermatitis and wheeze during periods of active disease and remission of atopic dermatitis. METHODS: The study formed part of the Prospective Cohort Study of Thai Children (PCTC) involving children born during the period October 2000 to September 2002. The principal caregiver in each family was identified and interviewed about socioeconomic factors, paternal health, and exposure to tobacco smoke. Data on wheeze and atopic dermatitis were collected from questionnaires administered at 6 and 12 months after birth. RESULTS: Of the 4245 live births included in the PCTC cohort, 4021 (94.7%) participated in the follow-up survey at age 6 months and 12 months. The prevalence of wheeze and eczema were 13.8% and 7.4%, respectively. There was also a significant association between current atopic dermatitis and wheeze in the same period (P < .01). However, no significant association was observed between previous atopic dermatitis and wheeze when atopic dermatitis was in remission. CONCLUSION: There is a significant increase in the risk of wheeze in infants with current atopic dermatitis but not in those in whom the disease is in remission.