ALLERGEN AVOIDANCE FOR HOUSE DUST MITE

Key words: Allergen avoidance, House dust mite, Bedding encasement

The Author offers an overview of allergen avoidance measures for house dust mite (HD). The main HD allergen, Der p1, is a proteolytic enzyme which has direct effects on respiratory epithelium and on immune system. There is sufficient evidence of the efficacy of allergen avoidance measures in preventing sensitization to HD and reducing the prevalence of wheezing. The target population for allergen avoidance measures are subjects at genetic risks, infants with sensitization to eggs and toddlers with sensitization to grass. The milestone of HD allergen avoidance is the use of bedding encasement (including mattress, pillow and covers) with effective barrier materials such as micro-fibers and elimination of carpets. Prolonged stay at higher altitudes where the HD mites cannot survive can reduce bronchial hyper-responsiveness more effectively than specific immunotherapy. The generous use of steam, vacuum cleaner with water pre-filter and high efficiency final filter can be effective complements.