Effect of triclosan on the pathogenesis of allergic diseases among children

Background Few studies have assessed associations between allergic diseases and antibacterial agents in Taiwanese children. Objective This study aimed to investigate the association of triclosan (TCS) exposure with allergic diseases among preschoolers, disease-specific IgE titers, and a child's sex. Methods Pediatric data were obtained from the Childhood Environment and Allergic Diseases Study (CEAS; 2010) cohort, and their urine and blood samples were used to analyze TCS and IgE concentrations (age 3 group). Three years later, clinical data were obtained again from the age 3 group (age 6 group). Correlations of TCS levels at ages 3 and 6 years with IgE levels and allergic diseases were evaluated. Results The TCS levels were higher at age 3 than at age 6 (geometric mean, 1.05 ng/ml vs 0.37 ng/ml). TCS levels were positively correlated with serum IgE levels at ages 3 and 6 years. Asthma and atopic dermatitis were significantly associated with TCS (adjusted OR 1.14, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.01-1.29; OR 1.22, 95% CI 1.05-1.41). Sex-stratified analysis revealed that TCS levels were positively correlated with IgE levels among boys in the age 6 group and significantly associated with asthma, allergic rhinitis, and atopic dermatitis among boys. Significance TCS exposure is associated with IgE levels and a potentially high risk of pediatric atopic disorders.

Automated summary

The study revealed a positive association between TCS exposure and IgE levels, suggesting a potentially higher risk of pediatric atopic disorders among preschoolers.