Dependence of Immediate Hypersensitivity in the Adolescent Period on Factors Encountered in Infancy

Abstract
Unselected adolescents (708, 15-17 yr old) were studied. They were physically examined, interviewed and skin prick tested with 12 common allergens. Questionnaires were distributed to the adolescents and their parents to investigate past and present symptoms and environmental influences. Emphasis was on the 1st yr of life. Exposition to allergens (pollens and cat epithelium) during the 1st 6 mo. of life, eczema during the 1st yr of life and atopic heredity were major risk factors in the development of positive skin tests and respiratory allergy apparent in the teenage period. Infections and wheezing during the 1st yr of life were less important risk factors.