Perfluoroalkyl substances exposure and immunity, allergic response, infection, and asthma in children: review of epidemiologic studies

This review summarizes recent findings of PFAS effects on infant and childhood immune health. Evidence of immunosuppression, diminished vaccine efficacy, and increased risk of infections, allergies, asthma and AD were described following in utero, infant, and early childhood PFAS exposures. Further investigation is warranted to characterize PFAS exposure pathways and potential modes of action in relation to PFAS effects on the developing immune system. Incontrovertible proof of PFAS immunotoxic effects could optimally be obtained by a large prospective study cohort of mothers and children from infancy through school-age. Regular assessments of circulating antibodies and response to infant and childhood vaccines during growth years could prove invaluable.