Allergen-avoidance measures in homes of house-dust-mite-allergic asthmatic patients: effects of acaricides and mattress encasings

Area of Science:

• Allergy and Immunology
• Pulmonology
• Environmental Health

Background:

• House-dust mite sensitization is a common trigger for asthma.
• Effective allergen avoidance strategies are crucial for asthma management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of acaricides and mattress encasings in reducing house-dust mite allergens.
• To assess the impact of these interventions on lung function and airway hyperresponsiveness in adult asthmatic patients.

Main Methods:

• Double-blind, placebo-controlled study involving adult asthmatic patients sensitized to house-dust mite.
• Comparison of acaricide treatment (Acarosan) on mattresses/floors versus allergen-impermeable mattress encasings.
• Measurement of Der p 1 allergen levels in dust and assessment of airway hyperresponsiveness (PC20 histamine).

Main Results:

• All treatments significantly reduced Der p 1 levels in mattress dust after 12 months.
• Mattress encasings yielded a greater reduction in Der p 1 than acaricide or placebo treatments.
• Acaricide treatment of floors also reduced Der p 1 levels.
• Significant improvement in airway hyperresponsiveness was observed with mattress encasings (6 months) and Acarosan (12 months).

Conclusions:

• Allergen-impermeable mattress encasings are highly effective in reducing house-dust mite allergen levels.
• Both mattress encasings and acaricide treatments can lead to improvements in asthma control.
• Mattress encasings appear to be a superior intervention for reducing allergen load and improving airway hyperresponsiveness.