Oral Bacteria and Allergic Disease in Children

This study will see if bacteria differ between children who have allergies or asthma and children who do not have allergies or asthma. Previous research suggests that some bacteria may protect against allergies and asthma. This study may provide more information on why some children develop allergies and asthma. Patients at the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill School of Dentistry who are between 6 and 11 years of age may be eligible for this study. Parents of participating children complete a questionnaire about the child and the child's health. The child provides a saliva sample by chewing a small piece of wax and spitting in a cup. The saliva sample is analyzed in the laboratory for bacteria, yeast and antibodies (substances the body produces to fight germs). ...