The Association between Helminth Infections and Atopic Diseases

摘要: Worldwide, allergies are increasingly becoming a public health problem. Several studies have indicated relation between and “western” lifestyle. These observations contributed to the formulation of hygiene hypothesis, which suggests that low levels exposure infections in early childhood increase risk developing allergic diseases, is mainly due insufficient stimulation Th1 immune response. This favor Th2 response results higher frequency chronic diseases like allergies, characterized by specific hyperactive Helminth allergens both similar responses. However, it has been noticed helminth endemic areas often associated with lower prevalence diseases. Therefore, thought play an important role process disorders, indicate allergens. showed controversial positive negative associations helminths indicates dual or influence on system. Different interfere predictive value diagnostic tests for atopy. Generally, atopy defined measuring total level IgE presence evidence hypersensitivity skin prick test (SPT). countries, high serum could also infections. use might lead conflicting atopic diagnostics, especially where endemic. In this chapter, effects occurrence related consequences diagnostics will be elaborated, emphasis situations countries at different stages economic development.