Prevalence of atopy in young healthy population, in Izmir, Turkey

The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of atopy especially in young aged group in which allergic diseases are frequently seen. We carried out this study in Izmir which is located on the west coast of Turkey and has all the characteristics of mediterranean climate. However, we evaluated whether geographical characteristics such as climate, dampness, kinds of plant might be affected on prevalence of atopy. Participants were randomly selected and detailed standard questionnaire about if they or their relatives had any allergic symptoms were applied. The skin prick tests (SPT) with standardzied allergen extracts were performed and serum total IgE levels were assayed. The study group consisted of 277 individuals, aged 15-25 years. Based on the questionnaire, 123 (44.4%) participants described positive history of atopy. In 127 of 277 subjects (46%) was found at least one positive skin-test response and the most frequent allergen was house-dust mites. SPT was positive in 68 (55.2%) of 123 subjects who had atopic history and in 59 (38%) of 154 subjects who had negative history of atopy. The subjects who had atopic history showed more frequently positive SPT prevalence than the others (p < 0.01). Geometric mean of total IgE level was 105.5 kU/L in SPT positive 127 subjects and 57.7 kU/L in SPT negative 150 subjects. There was a positive relationship between total IgE level and positive SPT (p < 0.01). History of atopy was correlated with total IgE levels in males (p < 0.01) but not in females. Women more often than men reported atopic history in the absence of true atopy.