Risk factors for the sensitization to citrus red mite (Panonychus citri) in adolescents living in rural areas of Cheju island / 천식및알레르기

ABSTRACT

INTRODUCTION: Recent investigations have demonstrated that citrus red mite is a common sensitizing allergen in children and adults living in rural areas of Cheju island. OBJECTIVE: The aims of this study were to evaluate the sensitization rate to the citrus red mite and to determine the risk factors for this sensitization in adolescents living in rural areas of Cheju island. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: A total of 3,395 adolescents (from ages 13 to 15 years old) living in rural areas of Cheju island were enrolled in this study. Each subject was evaluated by a modified ISAAC questionnaire, and a skin prick test with 11 common inhalant allergens including citrus red mite. RESULTS: On skin prick test the most common sensitizing allergen was D. pteronyssinus (27.9%), followed by D. farinae (23.9%), citrus red mite (18.3%), and cockroach (16.7%). Sensitization rate to citrus red mite was higher in those living near citrus orchards than in those living far from the orchards, and higher in those visiting citrus orchards more frequently than in those visiting less frequently. CONCLUSION: Citrus red mite is a common sensitizing allergen in adolescents living in rural areas of Cheju island. The sensitization rate to citrus red mite may be partially determined by environ- mental exposure.