Evaluating mite (Acari) allergenicity of house dust by guanine quantification

The development of a quick color reaction for guanine in house dust has made it possible to screen many homes for mite products of allergenic consequence. The azo dye methods are specific enough to be useful for the development of a sanitary standard. Comparing the guanine quantification results with mite counts and determinations of the mite antigen P1 (Der p I) leads to the conclusion that the provisional standard for mattress dust of 0.6 mg guanine/g dust can be extended to dust from floor coverings and padded furniture, at least in western Europe. Below this level, the sensitization risk to patients allergic to house dust mites seems to be minimal.