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[Fungal allergy. Part I]
Marek Niedoszytko1, Marta Chełmińska, Konrad Chełmiński
1Klinika Chorób Wewnetrznych, Endokrynologii i Zaburzeń Hemostazy Instytutu Chorób Wewnetrznych Akademii Medycznej w Gdańsku.
Abstract:
Fungal spores are one of the main groups of allergens. They are present in our environment all year long. The concentration of the spores in July and August is 100-1000 higher than pollens. In contrast with the pollens there is a correlation between the spore count and higher risk of medication use, nocturnal asthma attacks, and hospitalization rates. We have presented the clinical classification of fungi, and characterized main indoor and outdoor allergens. The fungi play also an important role in the sick building syndrome. Fungal allergens are not only aeroallergens, they may also get into our body with food. They may also develop contact reactions. Antibiotic allergy is regarded as one of the classic allergic reactions caused by fungi. The id reactions are caused by the fungi from far infection focuses.
Insights
Fungal spores are potent allergens, significantly increasing asthma risks and hospitalizations, especially in summer. Understanding fungal allergens is crucial for managing allergic reactions and respiratory health.
Area of Science:
- Allergen research
- Mycology
- Environmental health
Context:
- Fungal spores are ubiquitous environmental allergens, with higher concentrations than pollens during summer months.
- Elevated spore counts correlate with increased medication use, nocturnal asthma, and hospital admissions.
- Fungi contribute to allergic diseases, sick building syndrome, and various reaction types.
Purpose:
- To classify fungi clinically.
- To characterize major indoor and outdoor fungal allergens.
- To highlight the diverse roles of fungi in allergic conditions.
Summary:
- Fungal spores are significant allergens year-round, peaking in July-August.
- Unlike pollens, spore counts correlate with severe asthma exacerbations and hospitalizations.
- This review covers fungal classification, indoor/outdoor allergens, and diverse reactions including food and contact allergies.
Impact:
- Provides a clinical framework for understanding fungal allergies.
- Identifies key fungal allergens for targeted avoidance strategies.
- Enhances awareness of fungi's role in respiratory and systemic allergic diseases.