Young children with eczema have a broader range of gut bacteria than others, according to a new study.
Researchers believe the excess numbers of bacteria may trigger immune reactions, causing the disease.
Bacteria begin to grow in the intestines at birth, explain Lotta Nylund from University of Turku, Finland, and colleagues. The types of developing bacteria are affected by many factors, including caesarean versus vaginal delivery, breast milk versus formula, and any antibiotics taken.
The early balance of bacteria "shapes the immune system and potentially affects the development of variety of diseases," say the researchers in the journal BMC Microbiology today (23 January).
Studies have shown links between gut bacteria and allergic eczema. So the team tested 15 infants with eczema and 19 without, at six and 18 months of age.
No differences were seen at six months, but children with eczema had a more diverse set of gut bacteria at 18 months. Specifically, they had a third the amount of bacteria known as Bacteroidetes. They also had bacteria known as Clostridium clusters IV and XIVa, more often seen in adults.
Ms Nylund says: "We found 21 groups of bacteria which changed in this time period. However it is the early change towards adult-type bacteria which seems to be a risk factor for eczema."
The scientists say these differences in children with eczema may perpetuate the condition. They think that the cause may be linked to an antibody called Immunoglobulin A. Abnormal levels are found in people with allergic diseases, and may cause changes in gut bacteria – explaining the results of this study.
Genetic factors may also help explain the differences in gut bacteria between healthy children and those with eczema.
Nylund, L. et al. Microarray analysis reveals marked intestinal microbiota aberrancy in infants having eczema compared to healthy children in at-risk for atopic disease. BMC Microbiology 23 January 2013
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