ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: Tetranychus urticae (two spotted spider mite, TSM) is considered to be an important outdoor allergen, especially among farmers as an occupational allergen. TSM may be an important allergen in Cheonan area because this area is surrounded by many pear orchards where TSM is commonly found. OBJECTIVES: To determine the sensitization rate to TSM in Cheonan area. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Rates of sensitization to common inhalant allergens were analyzed in the 456 patients who visited the allergy clinic in Dankook University Hospital, and skin prick tests were done with 55 common inhalent allergens and TSM extract. RESULTS: The sensitization rate to Dermatophagoides farinae (37.7%) was highest followed by TSM (29.6%) and 25 (5.5%) patients were sensitized to TSM only. Sensitization rate to TSM was the highest in the third and fourth decades. Up to 50% of asthmatics aggravated during the summer season were sensitized to TSM. CONCLUSION: TSM was the second most common sensitized allergen in patients visiting the allergy clinic in Cheonan area. These results suggest that TSM must be an important outdoor allergen in rural areas.