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Mites living in hay: an important allergen source?
Abstract:
Fifty-two farmers and 21 non-farmers with symptoms related to hay contact were investigated. Skin prick tests (SPT) and RAST were performed with an extract made of barn dust (BDE) consisting of hay remnants. At microscopy, the barn dust was found to contain large amounts of dead mites, most of them identified as Lepidoglyphus destructor and Acarus siro. Twenty-one patients (9 farmers and 12 non-farmers) had positive RAST or BDE, with a good correlation to the case histories. Other allergies, especially to Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus, pollens, and animal danders were also common among patients. However, there was no correlation between positive SPT and RAST to BDE and any other allergen tested. This indicates that BDE contains distinct allergens, most likely of mite origin.
Insights
Barn dust extract (BDE) contains distinct allergens, likely from mites like Lepidoglyphus destructor and Acarus siro. These allergens cause hay-related allergy symptoms in both farmers and non-farmers.
Area of Science:
- Allergy and Immunology
- Environmental Health
- Occupational Medicine
Background:
- Hay contact can trigger respiratory symptoms.
- Barn dust is a complex mixture containing various biological components.
- Mites are common inhabitants of hay and barn environments.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the allergens present in barn dust extract (BDE).
- To determine the correlation between BDE sensitization and hay-related symptoms.
- To identify the specific allergenic sources within barn dust.
Main Methods:
- Skin prick tests (SPT) and Radioallergosorbent tests (RAST) were performed.
- Patients included farmers and non-farmers with hay-related symptoms.
- Barn dust extract (BDE) was prepared from hay remnants and analyzed microscopically.
Main Results:
- Twenty-one out of 73 patients showed positive RAST or SPT to BDE.
- Microscopic analysis revealed significant mite presence (Lepidoglyphus destructor, Acarus siro) in BDE.
- Positive BDE results correlated well with patient case histories.
- No cross-reactivity was observed between BDE and other tested allergens (pollens, animal danders, Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus).
Conclusions:
- Barn dust extract (BDE) contains distinct allergens, primarily of mite origin.
- Mites, such as Lepidoglyphus destructor and Acarus siro, are significant allergens in BDE.
- BDE sensitization is a relevant factor in hay-related allergies.