Sensitization to aeroallergens in atopic dermatitis patients: association with concomitant allergic diseases.

BACKGROUND: A few reports demonstrate the relationship between IgE sensitization to aeroallergens in atopic dermatitis (AD) patients and other allergic diseases and parameters.

OBJECTIVES: The objective of this study was to evaluate, if there is a significant relationship between the sensitization to common aeroallergens in AD patients and the occurrence of asthma bronchiale, rhinitis and other atopic parameters.

METHODS: Sensitization to dust, mites, animal dander and bird feather was examined (skin prick test, specific IgE) and the relationship with the occurrence of asthma bronchiale, rhinitis, duration of AD, family history and onset of AD was evaluated.

RESULTS: Two hundred and eighty-eight patients were examined - 90 men and 198 women. According to our results, IgE sensitization to animal dander, dust and mites may increase the risk of developing asthma or rhinitis. Persistent lesions of AD occur more often in patients with sensitization to animal dander, mites and dust. Patients with the sensitization to bird feather have the onset of AD more often above 5 years of age and in these patients, there is no relationship with the positive data about atopy in the family history.

CONCLUSION: There is a greater likelihood of developing other allergic diseases in atopic dermatitis patients who suffer from sensitisation to animal dander, mites, and dust. Thus, prompt management of atopic dermatitis and allergy to inhallant allergens that develop in early infancy may be a successful method for preventing of atopic march.