Prevalence and Patterns of Allergen Sensitization in Southern China: A Retrospective Analysis of 18,777 Routine...

The distribution of allergens exhibits significant geographic variation. Local epidemiological studies are essential for understanding allergic sensitization patterns, which may inform regional epidemiological reference. This study aimed to investigate the sensitization patterns among a routinely screened population in Shenzhen, a coastal metropolis in southeastern China.

A total of 18,777 participants undergoing routine health examinations were included. Serum-specific IgE (sIgE) levels against 19 allergens (10 inhalant and 9 food allergens) were measured using an immunoblot assay. The prevalence of sensitization was analyzed across gender, age groups, and seasons.

Among 18,777 participants, overall sIgE positivity was 24.4%. Inhalant allergens (21.7%) were more common than food allergens (6.7%). House dust mite (17.7%), crab (3.5%), cat dander (2.9%) and cockroach (2.7%) were the most prevalent. An 12-allergen panel was able to detected 99% of sensitized individuals in this population. Males showed significantly higher sensitization rates than females (P < 0.05). Inhalant sensitization decreased with age, whereas food sensitization remained relatively stable Seasonal variations were significant for tree, common ragweed, mutton, and house dust (all P < 0.05). Poly-sensitization was observed in 32.5% of sensitized individuals. Strong positive correlations formed four distinct allergen modules.

House dust mite, crab, and cat dander are major allergens in Shenzhen. Sensitization patterns vary significantly by gender, age, and season. Seafood sensitization is more common in younger adults, while peanut sensitization increases in older adults.