Association of recurrent wheezing with sensitivity to cockroach allergen in inner-city children.

Background: There are numerous data that show a strong relationship between early exposure and sensitization to indoor allergens and the development of asthma and persistent wheezing in children. Most studies, however, have only examined the prevalence of allergy in children who have been identified as having asthma.

Objective: To assess the prevalence of positive skin test results to common inhaled allergens and possible association with wheezing in inner-city children being seen in a general pediatric clinic.