Association of cystic fibrosis with allergy.

Immediate skin hypersensitivity to various inhalant allergens was present in 59% of 
123 children with cystic fibrosis (CF), a much higher percentage than 
in the general population. This is consistent with the idea that 
atopy arises as a result of impaired handling of antigen at 
mucosal surfaces. The allergic CF children had more chest infections, a 
worse chest x-ray appearance, and lower peak expiratory flow rates. Allergic 
diseases were also frequent in the CF obligate heterozygotes (32% of 
mothers and 26% of fathers). It is suggested that the heterozygotes 
may also have a mucosal abnormality resulting in defective antigen handling. 
