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Preventive effect of bedding encasement with microfine fibers on mite sensitization
K Nishioka1, H Yasueda, H Saito
1Department of Pediatrics, Jikei University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan.
Background:
The indoor levels of mite allergens are known to determine the thresholds of sensitization and asthma exacerbation. However, the method for preventing mite sensitization by reducing the levels of house dust mites (HDMs) is not well established.
Objective:
We investigated whether mite-blocking bedding encasing made from microfine fibers can prevent infants from being sensitized to HDMs.
Methods:
Fifty-seven Japanese infants with atopic dermatitis who had high levels of IgE antibodies against either egg white, cow's milk, or soybean (but not against HDMs) were randomly chosen and divided into two groups. Thirty families of atopic infants (group A) were instructed to decrease HDMs by controlling the indoor environment, including bedding cleaning, whereas 27 families receiving the same instructions (group B) were further guided to use the Allerguard encasing for quilts and mattresses of all family members. We repeatedly examined Der p 1 + Der f 1 in the infants' mattresses and anti-Dermatophagoides farinae (Df) IgE in the infants' sera, and we performed skin prick tests with Df extract for 1 year.
Results:
The mite-blocking encasing markedly reduced the levels of Der p 1 + Der f 1 (3.0 microg/g dust for group A vs 0.77 microg/g dust for B, p < 0.001). It also prevented the increase in serum levels of anti-Df IgE (2.5 U/ml for group A vs 0.7 U/ml for group B, p < 0.05) and positive reactions to skin prick testing with Df extract (63% for group A vs 31% for group B, p < 0.02) over 1 year.
Conclusion:
The bedding encasement with the mite-blocking fibers was effective for preventing atopic infants from being sensitized to HDMs, and it seems to be beneficial to modern busy housekeepers.
Insights
Mite-blocking bedding encasements significantly reduced house dust mite (HDM) allergen levels and prevented sensitization in infants with atopic dermatitis. This effective strategy offers a practical solution for reducing HDM exposure and preventing allergies.
Area of Science:
- Allergy and Immunology
- Environmental Health
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Indoor mite allergen levels correlate with sensitization and asthma exacerbation.
- Effective methods for preventing mite sensitization by reducing house dust mites (HDMs) are needed.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate if mite-blocking bedding encasements made from microfine fibers can prevent HDM sensitization in infants.
Main Methods:
- Fifty-seven infants with atopic dermatitis were divided into two groups.
- Group A received general HDM reduction instructions.
- Group B received the same instructions plus mite-blocking encasements for bedding.
Main Results:
- Mite-blocking encasements significantly reduced Der p 1 + Der f 1 levels (0.77 microg/g vs 3.0 microg/g).
- Encasements prevented increases in anti-Dermatophagoides farinae (Df) IgE and positive skin prick test reactions (31% vs 63%).
Conclusions:
- Bedding encasements with mite-blocking fibers effectively prevent HDM sensitization in atopic infants.
- This intervention is a practical solution for busy households.
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