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Environmental assessment of Dermatophagoides mite-allergen levels in Sweden should include Der m 1
Abstract:
The major allergen of Dermatophagoides microceras, Der m 1, as well as the allergens of D. pteronyssinus and D. farinae, Der p 1 and Der f 1, were analyzed in the homes of 111 asthmatic children in three climatic regions in Sweden. The numbers and species of mites were determined by microscopy, and circulating IgE antibodies against mites were measured. Der f 1 was the predominant house-dust-mite (HDM) allergen, Der p 1 the least often found, and Der m 1 represented 31% of the allergen load. However, in the Linköping area, Der m 1 was the major HDM allergen (58%). Mite counts and allergen levels correlated well. Current exposure to HDM allergens at home was associated with the serum IgE antibody response to HDM in the children with no threshold level. Of the children with IgE antibodies against HDM, 67% reacted to all three mites. Mite sensitization rates were marginally increased (7%) by the addition of IgE analysis of D. microceras to the routine analysis of IgE antibodies against D. pteronyssinus and D. farinae. Thus, Der m 1 may be an important HDM allergen and should be considered when HDM exposure data are assessed in areas with a climate like that of Sweden.
Insights
Der m 1 is a significant house-dust-mite allergen in Sweden, alongside Der f 1 and Der p 1. Its presence correlates with allergic responses in asthmatic children, suggesting its importance in allergy assessments.
Area of Science:
- Allergen research
- Immunology
- Environmental health
Background:
- House-dust-mite (HDM) allergens are common triggers for asthma.
- Understanding regional allergen prevalence is crucial for accurate diagnosis and treatment.
- Dermatophagoides microceras allergens, specifically Der m 1, have been less studied compared to D. pteronyssinus and D. farinae.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the prevalence and significance of Der m 1, Der p 1, and Der f 1 allergens in Swedish homes of asthmatic children.
- To investigate the correlation between mite allergen exposure, mite counts, and IgE antibody responses.
- To assess the added value of Der m 1 analysis in routine mite allergy diagnostics.
Main Methods:
- Microscopic determination of mite species and numbers in 111 asthmatic children's homes across three Swedish climatic regions.
- Measurement of circulating IgE antibodies against D. microceras, D. pteronyssinus, and D. farinae.
- Quantification of Der m 1, Der p 1, and Der f 1 allergen levels.
Main Results:
- Der f 1 was the predominant allergen overall, but Der m 1 was the major allergen in the Linköping area (58%).
- Mite counts and allergen levels showed a strong correlation.
- Exposure to HDM allergens was associated with IgE antibody response, with no discernible threshold.
- Including Der m 1 analysis increased mite sensitization detection rates by 7%.
Conclusions:
- Der m 1 is a significant HDM allergen in Sweden and should be considered in allergy assessments.
- Current HDM allergen exposure is linked to IgE sensitization in asthmatic children.
- Analyzing Der m 1 alongside other common mite allergens improves diagnostic sensitivity.