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Dustless chalk may trigger asthma symptoms in children with milk allergies
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Children with milk allergies may experience asthma symptoms after inhaling chalk dust containing casein, according to recent study results published in Annals of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology.
“Chalks that are labeled as being anti-dust or dustless still release small particles into the air,” study researcher Carlos H. Larramendi, MD, of the Hospital Marina Baixa in Spain, said in a press release. “Our research has found when the particles are inhaled by children with milk allergy, coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath can occur. Inhalation can also cause nasal congestion, sneezing and a runny nose.”
The study included 14 children allergic to cow’s milk protein. The study began after one child aged 6 years with milk allergy developed asthma and rhinoconjunctivitis in school. Researchers performed skin tests and/or specific immunoglobulin E testing with chalk and casein. Allergens contained in chalk were characterized by sodium dodecyl sulfate–polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, immunoblot and IgE inhibition experiments.
Researchers said all participants reported symptoms. The skin test was positive in five of 12 cases and the specific IgE test was positive in all study participants in which it was performed.
They also found that casein stalled the binding of IgE to chalk. Chalk sodium dodecyl sulfate–polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis proteins were similar in weight. Immunoblot showed a strong binding of IgE to chalk. The chalk challenge test was positive in two participants who also had a positive skin test result to chalk, but their symptoms improved after avoiding chalk in school. In addition, two participants who had a negative challenge test were reintroduced to chalk without incidence.
“Teachers should be informed about food and other triggers that might cause health problems for children,” James Sublett, MD, chair of the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology Indoor Environment Committee, said in a press release. “A plan for dealing with allergy and asthma emergencies should also be shared with teachers, coaches and the school nurse. Children should also carry allergist prescribed epinephrine, inhalers or other life-saving medications.”
Disclosure: The researchers report no relevant financial disclosures.
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