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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
Allergens and allergic diseases in children
1Division of Allergy, Asthma and Rheumatology, Department of Pediatrics, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan.
Acta Paediatrica Taiwanica = Taiwan Er Ke Yi Xue Hui Za Zhi
|December 22, 2006
Summary
Allergic diseases are rising, with indoor allergens like dust mites and cockroaches being common triggers. While allergen avoidance reduces exposure, its clinical efficacy for symptom improvement remains limited but is still recommended.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Health
- Immunology
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Allergic diseases show a gradual increase in prevalence.
- Indoor allergens, including house dust mites and cockroaches, are significant triggers for allergic symptoms in sensitized individuals, particularly in Taiwan.
- Early exposure to allergens may influence the development of allergic diseases later in childhood, but this requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the role of indoor allergens in allergic diseases.
- To discuss the current understanding of allergen avoidance strategies.
- To highlight the need for further research on early allergen exposure and its long-term effects.
Main Methods:
- Literature review on indoor allergens and allergic diseases.
- Analysis of allergen prevalence data in different seasons and locations.
- Evaluation of the clinical efficacy of allergen avoidance.
Main Results:
- House dust mites and cockroaches are prevalent indoor allergens in Taiwan, with seasonal and geographical variations.
- Infant sensitization to food allergens can predict subsequent aeroallergen sensitization.
- Current evidence shows limited clinical efficacy of allergen avoidance in improving allergic symptoms, despite reducing environmental allergen load.
Conclusions:
- Allergen avoidance, while not prominently effective for symptom improvement, is a recommended component of allergic disease management.
- Further research is needed to understand the impact of early allergen exposure on the development of allergic diseases.
- Integrated management strategies are crucial for addressing the increasing burden of allergic diseases.
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