Atopic sensitization in children of Somali immigrants in Italy

Children of immigrants are known to be at greater risk for developing allergic manifestations than the population in general. In this study we observed children of Somali origin living in Italy in order to find plausible explanations for the high risk of allergic disease in immigrants. Fifty-two children aged 0-14 years (mean = 6.7 years) were examined during the spring season. The mothers of the children were asked to fill in a questionnaire on symptoms and signs of atopic diseases and the family history of atopy. In addition, a physical examination and skin tests were performed. All families used mattresses, pillows and/or blankets made of wool, known to favor the growth of mites. In the majority of these children's families we found at least five people cohabitating in the same room. Skin prick tests were most frequently positive for Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus. Seventy-four percent (14/19) of those with symptoms were positive to D. pteronyssinus. Only 14% (2/14) of those positive to D. pteronyssinus were positive to Lolium perenne. Thirty-seven percent (19/52) had atopic symptoms and 15% (5/33) of those without symptoms were positive to D. pteronyssinus (p < 0.0001 compared to those with symptoms). Sensitization to food allergens occurred less frequently as compared to common inhalant allergens (p < 0.0001). A high prevalence of atopic diseases among children of Somali immigrants in Italy might be attributed to contact with the new environment and poor socioeconomic conditions that promote, for example, the growth of mites. However, further studies are needed to document these differences.