Asthma Allergy Immunology

Asthma Allergy Immunology

Sensitization to Dermatophagoid Mites and Animal Dander In Patients With Allergic Rhinitis: An Evaluation Based On Skin Prick Test Findings

Selma YESILKAYA 1,

1 Samsun Training and Research Hospital, Division of Immunology and Allergy, Samsun, Türkiye

DOI: 10.21911/aai.2025.829
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Background: Allergic rhinitis is one of the most frequently encountered allergic conditions, and the types of sensitizing aeroallergens can vary significantly by region. Therefore, having region-specific data on allergen sensitization is important in guiding both the diagnosis and treatment. This study aimed to identify the most common aeroallergens among adult patients with allergic rhinitis and to evaluate sensitization particularly to dermatophagoid mites and pet dander.

Materials and Methods: In this retrospective cohort study, data from 179 patients who presented with allergic rhinitis symptoms between October 2023 and October 2024 were reviewed. Sensitization to aeroallergens was assessed through skin prick testing. Total IgE levels, eosinophil counts, asthma status, and history of pet ownership were also analyzed.

Results: Sensitization to Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus and D. farinae was observed in 63.1% and 61.5% of the patients, respectively. Among individuals with pets, sensitization to cat dander (24.2% vs. 7.5%, p=0.010) and dog dander (12.1% vs. 2.7%, p=0.039) was significantly more common. Patients sensitized to D. pteronyssinus, D. farinae, and cat dander had significantly higher total IgE levels (p=0.001, p=0.010, and p=0.003, respectively). In addition, eosinophil counts were higher in those sensitized to cat (p=0.037) and dog (p=0.017) dander.

Conclusion: Dermatophagoid mites appear to be the most common aeroallergens among patients with allergic rhinitis. Sensitization to pet dander is associated with elevated total IgE and eosinophil levels. These findings should be considered when offering personalized prevention strategies and planning immunotherapy.

Keywords : Allergic rhinitis, skin prick test, aeroallergen sensitization, house dust mites, total IgE, eosinophils