Modulation Of IgE Levels In Lead Exposed Children By Parental Cigarette Smoking, Qualyobia Governate, Egypt

Abstract

Many children possessing blood lead levels (BLL) in excess of centre of disease control and prevention (CDC) guidelines (>10 µg/dL) exist especially in urban areas with a predominance of housing built early to mid-20^th century.  In addition, many children are exposed in the home to Parental tobacco smoke (PTS). The current study examined the effect of lead-exposure (BLL levels of 1-55 µg/dL) with/without concurrent PTS exposure on immune system function in 318 children aged 6-84 months from some urban areas, Qualyobia Governate, EGYPT. In this population, 62.9% of children came from smoking homes, 36.5% of children possessed BLL levels >10 µg/dL, 51.9% of children were under 2 years of age, and the population was economically homogeneous. Multiple immune function markers including cell counts, and   IgE levels were analyzed for correlation with Pb and / or PTS exposure.  For children exposed to both Pb and PTS, a marginally significant relationship between IgE and BLL levels was observed (p=0.12). IgE levels increased in children with combined Pb and PTS exposure.  For children exposed to Pb without PTS, decreased lymphocyte cell counts, and serum IgE levels, while granulocyte counts (%granulocytes) was increased. A statistically significant correlation between PTS and BLL levels was found.