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Houses and allergic respiratory syndromes
M Chirilă1, C Nicolau, L Florescu
1N. Gh. Lupu Institute of Internal Medicine, Bucharest, Romania.
Medecine Interne
|October 1, 1990
Summary
High humidity and poor ventilation in homes significantly increase pathogenic Aspergillus niger spores, triggering respiratory allergies, especially in children. Improving housing conditions is crucial for preventing future asthma cases.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Health
- Allergology
- Mycology
Background:
- Indoor air quality is a significant factor in respiratory health.
- Fungal spores and dust mites are common indoor allergens.
- Previous studies suggest links between housing conditions and allergic diseases.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between indoor fungi, particularly Aspergillus niger, and respiratory allergic syndromes.
- To identify key environmental factors contributing to these syndromes.
- To assess sensitization prevalence in a residential population.
Main Methods:
- Quantitative analysis of fungal spores in 49 Bucharest flats.
- Allergologic testing for common fungi (Aspergillus, Penicillium, Alternaria, Cladosporium) and Dermatophagoides pteronissinus.
- Correlation analysis with housing conditions (humidity, ventilation).
Main Results:
- Infested flats showed a high prevalence of pathogenic Aspergillus niger spores.
- Humidity and inadequate ventilation were identified as primary triggers for respiratory allergies.
- Children were disproportionately affected by the housing microclimate.
- Latent sensitization to fungi and mites was found in approximately 33% of children and 20% of adults.
Conclusions:
- Aspergillus niger and poor housing conditions are significant risk factors for respiratory allergies.
- Early identification and intervention, including improving living environments, are essential.
- High sensitization rates indicate a substantial population at risk for developing bronchial asthma.