Abstract • 16e

Differences in the composition of human milk between different mothers could explain the controversies on the relationship between breast feeding and early development of atopy.

Aims: To prospectively investigate milk total S-IgA and S-IgA antibodies to lactoglobulin, ovalbumin and cat and the composition of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) in milk from mothers of atopic and non-atopic children.

Methods: Colostrum and milk samples were collected at 1 and 3 months of lactation from mothers of 44 atopic and 76 non-atopic children. Skin prick tests were performed at 6, 12 and 18 months and the development of atopic diseases were clinically assessed in the children. Milk S-IgA antibodies were measured by ELISA and milk PUFA by gas chromatography.

Results: The levels of total S-IgA and S-IgA antibodies to food and inhalant allergens in human milk were similar in milk from mothers of allergic and non-allergic children. Lower levels of C20:5 n-3 in transitional milk and lower levels of C20:5 n-3, C22:5 n-3 and C20:6 n-3 (p<0.05 for all) were found in mature milk from mothers of allergic as compared to non-allergic children. Similarly, total n-6/total n-3 and the AA/EPA ratios were low in transitional and mature milk from mothers of allergic children.

Conclusion: The levels of S-IgA antibodies in maternal milk did not protect against the development of allergy in the children. Low levels of n-3 PUFA and high AA/EPA ratios in maternal milk seemed to be a risk factor for the development of symptoms of allergic disease during the first 18 months of life.