Influence of maternal and cord blood C ‐reactive protein on childhood respiratory symptoms and eczema

Background Inflammatory processes during pregnancy might affect fetal lung development and immune responses. We examined the associations of maternal and cord blood C ‐reactive protein levels with respiratory symptoms and eczema in preschool children. Methods This study was embedded in a population‐based prospective cohort study of 4984 children. Generalized estimating equations were used to assess the effect of C ‐reactive protein levels on respiratory symptoms or eczema. C‐reactive protein levels were measured during early pregnancy and at birth. Wheezing, lower respiratory tract infections, and eczema until the age of 4 yr were annually obtained by questionnaires. Results Maternal C ‐reactive protein was not associated with the risks of wheezing and lower respiratory tract infections. Compared to children with maternal C ‐reactive protein in the lowest quarter, children in the highest quarter had increased risks of eczema OR 1.20 (1.03, 1.40). Compared to children with cord blood C ‐reactive protein lower than 0.20 mg/l, those with levels higher than 0.20 mg/l had increased risks of wheezing, OR 1.21 (1.07, 1.36), and lower respiratory tract infections, OR 1.21 (1.05, 1.39), but not of eczema. Conclusions Our results suggest that elevated maternal C ‐reactive protein in pregnancy is associated with a higher risk of eczema, and C ‐reactive protein in cord blood with a higher risk of wheezing and lower respiratory tract infections in the first 4 yrs.