IgE level in newborn umbilical cord and its relationship with some maternal factors

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Allergic diseases are among major pediatric issues as they are highly prevalent and chronic. Therefore, identification of factors contributing to allergic disease could play a significant role in prevention of these conditions. This study aimed at investigating the IgE level in newborn’s umbilical cord blood and its relationship with some maternal factors. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted in 101 mothers and their newborns in Babol, Iran 2016. The samples were selected using non-probability convenience sampling. Information including newborn sex, gravidity, history of allergy before and during pregnancy (asthma, allergic rhinitis, eczema, hives, food allergy, and drug allergy), family history of allergy among mothers, history of exposure to secondhand smoke and pets, and delivery techniques was recorded. The IgE levels in newborn umbilical cord blood and maternal serum were measured using an IgE kit and ELISA technique. RESULTS: The newborns included 53 females (52.5%) and 29 mothers had vaginal birth (28.7%). History of exposure to secondhand smoke was found in 15 samples (14.9%), and 18 participants reported exposure to pets (17.8%). The median IgE levels in newborns and their mothers were 0.41 and 98.6, respectively. In general, IgE level in all newborns was within the normal range, but, it was higher than normal in 15 mothers (14.9%). The IgE level was significantly higher in male newborns than that of the female newborns (p = 0.011). There were no significant differences in the IgE levels of mothers and their newborns on the basis of delivery technique and history of exposure to pets (p > 0.05). CONCLUSION: In this study, the IgE level in all newborns was within the normal range, and sex was found to be an effective factor in IgE levels.