Abstrait

Analysis of inhalant allergen sensitivity by age groups in patients from Istanbul

Ahmet Hamdi Kepecci, Cenk Kig

Introduction: In this cross-sectional study, we aimed to evaluate the distribution of allergic sensitivity to the common inhalant allergens in different age groups. We also aimed to determine the factors that may be associated with sensitization in adults from the European region of Istanbul.

Materials and Method: Using SPSS statistical analysis software, we retrospectively evaluated Skin Prick Test (SPT) data from 2587 patients with symptoms similar to Allergic Rhinitis (AR).

Results: Analysis of data revealed that that the frequency of sensitization to the common inhalant allergens significantly decreased by age. Animal dander was found to be the most common cause of allergic reactions among adult patients (p<0.05). When compared to the birth in other months, the frequency of sensitization to animal dander was significantly higher among individuals born in January (p<0.05). Gender-based analysis of the results revealed that the prevalence of sensitization to animal dander was significantly higher among females<45 y of age (p<0.05). The prevalence of sensitization to the inhalant allergens was found to be the lowest among elderly patients (42.9%; p<0.000).

Conclusion: Personalized assessment of allergic conditions is important for planning a suitable treatment protocol for allergic diseases in the elderly. Our findings may contribute to design effective care plans and improve the environmental conditions for adult patients with symptoms similar to AR.