Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 18, 2026
A Component-resolved Diagnostic Approach for a Study on Grass Pollen Allergens in Chinese Southerners with Allergic Rhinitis and/or Asthma
Published on: June 4, 2017
Skin test reactivity to molds in pre-school children with newly diagnosed asthma
Kaj Korhonen1, Saara Mähönen, Anne Hyvärinen
1Department of Paediatrics, Kuopio University Hospital, Kuopio, Finland.
Background:
The aim of the present study was to evaluate the prevalence of sensitization to molds and to house dust mites (HDM) in pre-school children with newly-diagnosed asthma.
Methods:
From 1996 to 2000, 122 children 1 to 6 years of age with fresh asthma treated in the Kuopio University Hospital, Kuopio, Finland, were recruited in the study; 94% attended. Skin prick tests were performed to common inhalant allergens and to 10 molds. The homes were surveyed for moisture damage.
Results:
A majority of the houses had signs of dampness and moisture. One-third of the children reacted to inhalant allergens. There were 11 positive reactions to molds in five children who all reacted to at least one animal dander or seasonal pollen. Aspergillus fumigatus, Botrytis cinerea, and Cladosporium herbarum were the most common mold allergens. There were only two children with positive reactions to HDM, and none of them reacted to molds. No associations were found between the presence or degree of moisture problems at home and mold or HDM allergy.
Conclusion:
Sensitization to molds seems to play only a minor role in pre-school children with newly-diagnosed asthma in a northern climate where the incidences of mold and HDM allergies are rather low.
Insights
Mold sensitization appears minimal in preschool children with new asthma in cooler climates. House dust mite (HDM) allergies were also uncommon, with no link found to home moisture issues.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Allergy and Immunology
- Environmental Health
Background:
- Newly-diagnosed asthma in preschool children presents unique challenges.
- Understanding allergen sensitization is crucial for effective asthma management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of sensitization to molds and house dust mites (HDM) in young children with newly-diagnosed asthma.
- To explore potential links between home environmental factors and allergic sensitization.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of 122 preschool children (1-6 years) with newly-diagnosed asthma was studied.
- Skin prick tests assessed sensitization to common inhalant allergens and 10 molds.
- Home moisture damage surveys were conducted.
Main Results:
- A majority of homes surveyed showed signs of dampness.
- 11 children (approx. 9%) showed positive reactions to molds, primarily Aspergillus fumigatus, Botrytis cinerea, and Cladosporium herbarum.
- Only two children reacted to HDM; none reacted to molds. No association was found between home moisture and mold/HDM allergy.
Conclusions:
- Mold sensitization plays a minor role in preschool asthma in northern climates.
- HDM allergy is also infrequent in this population.
- Further research may be needed to identify other triggers in this demographic.
Related Concept Videos
01:28Asthma I: Introduction
01:29Asthma-I: Introduction
02:06Allergic Reactions
01:30Allergic Reactions: Anaphylaxis
01:30Asthma-IV: Diagnostic and Management
Clinical Assessment for Asthma:
This is the first step in diagnosing and managing asthma. It includes:
01:20Asthma: Pathogenesis and Management
Asthma is classified as allergic and non-allergic. Allergens such as dust mites, pollen, and pet dander trigger allergic asthma, while factors like cold air, intense emotions, or exercise can induce non-allergic asthma.