CYPRESS POLLEN SESITIZATION IN GEORGIA: CLINICAL AND MOLECULAR CHARACTERISTICS

Area of Science:

• Allergology
• Aerobiology
• Immunology

Background:

• Cypress pollen allergy (winter pollinosis) is prevalent globally, with increasing exposure and sensitization rates.
• Cupressaceae family pollens are significant allergens, particularly around the Mediterranean, North America, and Asia.
• Rising allergen loads likely contribute to increased cypress pollen allergy prevalence.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate cypress pollen allergy prevalence in Georgia.
• To characterize the clinical manifestations of cypress pollen allergy.
• To determine the molecular sensitization profile in affected patients.

Main Methods:

• Study included 492 patients with suspected cypress pollen allergy.
• Diagnostic workup involved specific IgE testing (ImmunoCAP, ISAC).
• Airborne pollen monitoring used a Burkard Seven Day Volumetric Spore-trap (2019-2020).

Main Results:

• 37.2% of patients tested positive for cypress pollen allergy.
• Sneezing and ocular itching were the most frequent symptoms (82.9%), often severe.
• Patients frequently showed co-sensitization to grass, tree, and weed allergens.

Conclusions:

• Cypress pollen sensitization is common in Georgia, affecting approximately one-third of allergy clinic attendees.
• Clinical symptoms primarily manifest as allergic rhinitis and conjunctivitis.
• Poly-sensitization to various plant allergens is characteristic of cypress pollen-allergic individuals in this region.