Atopy is not associated with poor control of asthma

Atopy is part of the immunopathology of allergic diseases; however, the effect of atopy on the prognosis of asthma in adult patients is not established yet. The aim of this study is to investigate whether there is an association between lack of control of asthma and sensitization to aeroallergens. The relation between rhinitis severity and atopy was also investigated.

Six hundred and thirty-nine patients aged ≥ 20 years with uncontrolled and untreated asthma were enrolled. They were followed for 1 year, received inhaled corticosteroids combined with long-acting beta-2 agonists, performed spirometry, skin prick test to aeroallergens, and reported emergency room visits due to asthma. Questionnaires (Asthma Control Questionnaire (ACQ) and Asthma Quality of Life Questionnaire (AQLQ)) were applied to evaluate asthma symptoms and quality of life. Rhinitis diagnosis and severity were evaluated.

Baseline data demonstrated that atopic patients were younger and had earlier onset of asthma. Gender, body mass index, and lung function were similar between atopic and nonatopic patients. Low schooling had a borderline association with nonatopic asthma. Follow-up data demonstrated that there was no significant difference between atopic and nonatopic patients in asthma symptoms, quality of life, frequency of patients with uncontrolled asthma, emergency room visit, hospital admission, airway obstruction, nor response to treatment. Rhinitis severity was also similar between atopic and nonatopic individuals.

In conclusion, positive skin prick test to common aeroallergens was not found to be predictor of asthma control among adults.