Quantitation of house dust mites and house dust mite allergens in the microenvironment of dogs.
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.


METHODS
n 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 > or = 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 > or = 1 year old had high HDM allergen concentrations. Homes with > or = 2 microg of Der f 1 or Group 2 allergens/g of dust or > or = 100 mites/g of dust were significantly more likely to have a maximum relative humidity > or = 75%.


CONCLUSIONS
Results indicate 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.
Randall
Amy
A
Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA.
Hillier
Andrew
A
Cole
Lynette K
LK
Kwochka
Kenneth W
KW
Needham
Glen
G
Wassom
Donald L
DL
D000485:Allergens / Q000032:analysis*; D000818:Animals; D004283:Dog Diseases / Q000276:immunology*; D004285:Dogs / Q000469:parasitology*; D004391:Dust; D004781:Environmental Exposure; D006798:Housing; D008834:Microclimate; D008924:Mite Infestations / Q000276:immunology / Q000662:veterinary*; D008925:Mites / Q000276:immunology*; D009820:Ohio; D014505:Urban Population
D000485:Allergens; D004391:Dust