An Important Source for Cat and House Dust Mite Allergens: Day-Care Centers
Makaleler > Tam Makale · 2012
Yazarlar: Okan GÜLBAHAR, Metin KORKMAZ, Nihat ERDEM, Emine Nihal METE GÖKMEN, Aytül Zerrin SİN, Fatma Ömür ARDENİZ, Hatice ULUER, Ali KOKULUDAĞ
TURKIYE KLINIKLERI TIP BILIMLERI DERGISI, SCI Expanded İndekslerine Giren Dergi, Uluslararası, 2012, cilt 32, ss 750-758
DOI: 10.5336/medsci.2011-26355
Özet
Objective: Exposure to indoor allergens during childhood has been associated with an increased risk of sensitization. There is no data about indoor allergen levels in day-care centers in Turkey. We hypothesized that day-care centers (DC) would be relevant sources of cat and mite allergens. Material and Methods: Fifty-seven dust samples were collected from 19 DCs in Izmir, their gardens, and classrooms of the primary schools where the DCs are located in. A questionnaire about characteristics of DCs was completed. Fel d 1, Der p 1 and Der f 1 allergen levels were quantitated by enzyme-linked immunoassay. Results: Fel d 1 was detected in all, and mite allergens in 94.7% of the samples. Levels exceeding sensitization threshold level for cat and mite allergens were present in 73.7%, and 21.1% of DCs, respectively. Fel d 1 levels exceeding threshold level that might cause asthma exacerbation was detected in 21% of DCs. Fel d 1 levels in DCs and their gardens were higher than the classrooms of the same school. Der f 1 levels were identical in DCs, gardens and classrooms. Der p 1 concentration was higher in DCs with air-conditioning, than DCs without a ventilation system. Although there was no difference for Fel d 1 levels in DCs with or without carpeted floor, Fel d 1 concentrations in DCs with carpet were significantly higher than in classrooms with no carpet. Conclusion: Day-care centers in Izmir are important sources of indoor allergens that could cause sensitization or even allergic symptoms in children and their staff.