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[Three cases of typical cryptomeria pollen asthma]
T Yamada1, K Nishioka, M Yamada
1Department of Pediatrics, Jikei University of Medicine.
Arerugi = [Allergy]
|March 1, 1994
Summary
Cryptomeria pollen (Cryptomeria japonica) can cause asthma in children, with symptoms appearing years after initial exposure. Higher pollen counts correlate with increased asthmatic attacks in susceptible individuals.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Allergies
- Pediatric Pulmonology
- Immunology
Background:
- Childhood asthma is a significant health concern.
- Allergic rhinitis, or hay fever, often precedes asthma development.
- Identifying specific environmental triggers is crucial for effective asthma management.
Observation:
- Three children diagnosed with typical cryptomeria pollen asthma were studied.
- Asthma symptoms, including wheezing, began 1-4 years after the onset of pollinosis (pollen allergy).
- Asthmatic attacks were observed to occur days after increases in cryptomeria pollen counts, particularly in years with higher-than-average pollen levels.
Findings:
- Laboratory tests revealed high titers of specific IgE antibodies to cryptomeria pollen (over 17.5 PRU/ml) in all three children.
- Allergen inhalation tests yielded positive results in two of the three cases.
- These findings strongly support the diagnosis of cryptomeria pollen-induced asthma in these pediatric patients.
Implications:
- This study highlights cryptomeria pollen as a significant allergen contributing to pediatric asthma.
- Early identification and management of cryptomeria pollen allergy may help prevent or mitigate asthma development in children.
- Further research into the prevalence and impact of cryptomeria pollen on childhood asthma is warranted.