Relation between infantile colic and asthma/atopy: a prospective study in an unselected population

Abstract

Objective: To assess whether children with history of infantile colic may be at increased risk of subsequently developing asthma and/or atopy.

Methods: We used data collected in a large, prospective study from an unselected population. Infantile colic and concurrent feeding method were determined from the 2-month well-infant visit form completed by the physician for 983 children who were enrolled at birth. Markers of atopy (total serum immunoglobulin E and allergy skin prick test), allergic rhinitis, asthma, wheezing, and peak flow variability were the main outcome measures studied at different ages between infancy and 11 years.

Results: Ninety (9.2%) children had infantile colic. Prevalence of colic was similar among children fed either breast milk or formula. There was no association between infantile colic and markers of atopy, asthma, allergic rhinitis, wheezing, or peak flow variability at any age.

Conclusion: Our data cannot support the hypothesis that infantile colic provides increased risk for subsequent allergic disease or atopy.