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Cockroach allergy and exposure to cockroach allergen in Polish children with asthma

I Stelmach1, J Jerzynska, W Stelmach

  • 1Department of Pediatrics and Allergy, M Curie Hospital, Zgierz, Poland.

Allergy
|July 18, 2002
PubMed

Insights

Cockroach (CR) allergen exposure is a significant factor in childhood asthma severity in Poland. Children with CR hypersensitivity more frequently experience severe asthma and exhibit poorer lung function compared to those with other allergies.

Area of Science:

  • Environmental Health
  • Pediatric Allergy
  • Respiratory Medicine

Background:

  • Childhood asthma morbidity is rising globally.
  • Indoor allergens, including cockroach (CR) allergen, are key contributors to asthma exacerbations.
  • Understanding allergen prevalence and impact is crucial for effective asthma management in children.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the prevalence of cockroach allergen sensitivity in Polish children with asthma.
  • To investigate the association between CR allergen exposure and asthma severity.
  • To compare asthma severity in children allergic to CR versus other common allergens.

Main Methods:

  • One hundred sixty asthmatic children underwent skin prick tests (SPT) for common and CR allergens.
  • Spirometry and histamine provocation tests were performed to assess lung function and airway hyperresponsiveness.
  • Specific IgE levels to CR and Bla g 2 concentrations in homes were measured for sensitized children.

Main Results:

  • Cockroach allergen sensitivity was found in 24.3% of children, with dust mite and pollen allergies being more common.
  • Children with CR sensitivity showed significantly higher rates of severe asthma (61%) and poorer lung function (lower FEV1 and PC20 values).
  • The cockroach allergen Bla g 2 was detected in 55.13% of homes, with higher levels in older, poorly heated, and lower-income households.

Conclusions:

  • Cockroach allergen is an important sensitizer in Polish children with asthma.
  • Elevated Bla g 2 levels in homes correlate with specific housing characteristics.
  • CR hypersensitivity is linked to more severe asthma and worse respiratory function in pediatric populations.
Abstract

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