Sensitivity to Cupressus: allergenic significance in Córdoba (Spain)

The detection of high levels of Cupressaceae pollen concentration in the air from January to April for several years in our area prompted analysis of the incidence and allergenic significance of sensitivity to this pollen. Furthermore, this is the highest winter-blooming taxa in the city of Córdoba. Skin prick tests were carried out over a one-year period on 1532 patients suffering from respiratory disorders (asthma and/or rhinoconjunctivitis). A total of 42 variables were studied in Cupressus-positive and Cupressus-negative patients; the data obtained were analyzed using a statistical software package. Sensitivity to Cupressus was found in 13% of all outpatients attending the unit, 18% of patients with respiratory disorders and 35% of patients with pollinosis. No significant differences were found between Cupressus-positive (C+) and Cupressus-negative (C-) patients with regard to mean age, sex, patient environment (i.e., rural, semi-rural, urban), personal or family history of atopy, clinical symptoms or evolution after immunotherapy (which did not include this antigen). More C+ patients were found in the higher age brackets (over 25 years old; p < 0.05); C+ patients showed greater duration (p < 0.05) and slower development (p < 0.05) of symptoms, and were also found to be more sensitive to other pollens (p < 0.001). All the Cupressus-sensitive patients also reacted positively to Olea and Fraxinus, compared to 77% and 51% in the two Cupressus-negative groups.