Birch pollen allergy in Europe

Area of Science:

• Allergen immunotherapy
• Clinical immunology
• Environmental allergy

Background:

• Birch pollen (Betula) is a dominant aeroallergen in Northern and Central Europe, causing allergic rhinitis and asthma.
• Climate change has increased birch pollen levels and exposure duration, leading to rising sensitization rates.
• Cross-reactivity within the birch homologous group (Betulaceae, Fagaceae) and with food allergens causes Pollen Food Syndrome (PFS).

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a narrative review of birch pollen allergy.
• To discuss taxonomy, cross-reactivity, prevalence, clinical relevance, Pollen Food Syndrome (PFS), and health-related quality of life (HRQoL).
• To focus on the European perspective of birch pollen allergy.

Main Methods:

• Narrative literature review.
• Synthesis of existing research on birch pollen allergy and related conditions.
• Focus on European epidemiological and clinical data.

Main Results:

• Birch pollen allergy prevalence and exposure are increasing.
• Allergen cross-reactivity leads to prolonged allergy seasons and secondary Pollen Food Syndrome (PFS).
• Birch pollen allergy significantly impacts patients' health-related quality of life (HRQoL).

Conclusions:

• Birch pollen allergy is a growing public health concern in Europe.
• Understanding cross-reactivity is crucial for managing prolonged allergic symptoms and PFS.
• Effective management strategies are needed to improve the quality of life for allergic individuals.