Purpose of review: Primary and secondary prevention of severe atopic disease exemplified by atopic asthma represents an increasingly prominent focus of research in paediatric allergy. We review below the rationale for this approach and recent progress in development and testing of a range of potential preventive strategies.
Recent findings: The principal areas reviewed relate to potential and currently available treatments targeting enhancement of overall immune functions, allergen-specific immunomodulation and respiratory viral infections, particularly during early childhood.
Summary: The scientific rationale for prophylaxis of atopic diseases via early intervention strategies targeting young children is increasingly supported by findings from the experimental and clinical literature and significant progress may be expected in the mid-term future.