Quantitation of house dust mites and house dust mite allergens in the microenvironment of dogs (vol 64, pg 1580, 2003)

Objective-To quantitate the density of Dermatophagoides farinae and D pteronyssinus and concentrations of house dust mite (HDM) allergens (Der f 1, Der p 1, and Group 2 allergens) in the indoor microenvironment of dogs. Sample Population-50 homes in Columbus, Ohio. Procedures-In each home, samples of dust were collected from 3 locations in which dogs spent most time. Whenever possible, the species of mites collected was identified. Mite density (mites/g of dust) was assessed, and allergen concentrations were assayed by standardized ELISAs. Relative humidity and temperature in each home were monitored during a 5-day period. Characteristics of homes and sample sources were evaluated. Results-Dust samples from all 50 homes contained greater than or equal to 1 HDM allergen; Der f 1 and Der p 1 were detected in 100 and 74% of homes, respectively. Fifteen homes had HDMs; compared with D pteronyssinus, D farinae was found more commonly (14/15 homes) and at a higher density. Basements, homes without central air-conditioning, and dog beds that were greater than or equal to 1 year old had high HDM allergen concentrations. Homes with greater than or equal to 2 mug of Der f 1 or Group 2 allergens/g of dust or greater than or equal to 100 mites/g of dust were significantly more likely to have a maximum relative humidity greater than or equal to 75%. Conclusions and Clinical Relevance-Results indicated the presence of HDMs and HDM allergens in the specific microenvironment of dogs in homes. Factors associated with high levels of exposure were identified, which may be associated with increased risk for sensitization and development of atopic diseases.