RESUMO
This study sought to determine the relative abundance and seasonal variation of Dermatophagoides farinae and D pteronyssinus allergens in homes and workplaces of the Upper Connecticut River Valley of New England. Dust samples were obtained from 15 homes and 23 carpeted workplaces in public buildings. Half the samples were collected in June 1990 and half in September 1990. D pteronyssinus and D farinae content of the samples were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). This observational study of homes and workplaces found a predominance of D pteronyssinus allergens in both homes and workplaces; a marked seasonal increase in total Dermatophagoides group I allergens from June to September; and only very low levels of allergens in workplaces. Workplaces seem an unlikely source of significant dust-mite allergen exposure, and workplace exposure does not negate efforts at home dust control by affected patients in this region.
