Regional differences in sensitization to Ambrosia in Croatian children

Abstract

Introduction: FP7 project ATOPICA (Atopic diseases in changing climate, land use and air quality) supported by EU Grant agreement NO: CP 282687 explores the combined pan-European impact of changes in climate, land use and air pollution on allergen pollen-induced diseases.

Aims and objectives: To determine the prevalence and future incidence in allergy to Ambrosia in children from different exposure sites.

Methods: Cohort of 3590 children, aged 4-10 years, was recruited from 3 regions of Croatia differing in Ambrosia pollen concentrations: Slavonia with the highest, Zagreb area with middle and Dalmatia with the lowest. Each participant underwent skin prick test (SPT) to the standard set of aeroallergens. Pollen concentrations and air quality data were gathered from authorized institutions.

Results: A total of 369 children were sensitized to Ambrosia pollen. Prevalence of Ambrosia sensitization was 14.84 % in Zagreb area, 14.26 % in Slavonia and 1.52 % in Dalmatia. Analysis of sensitization in two age groups (4-6 and 7-10 years) reveals higher prevalence of Ambrosia, birch and D. pteronyssinus sensitization as well as double sensitization (birch and Ambrosia) in older age group for all 3 regions. Sensitization to above allergens was more prevalent in male participants. After two pollen seasons of follow-up, de novo sensitized children were recorded: 2.88% in Zagreb area, 2,73% in Slavonia and 0,00% in Dalmatia. De novo sensitization was more prevalent in older age group.

Conclusions: Region of Slavonia measures highest Ambrosia pollen concentrations and also most de novo sensitized children, which leads to assumption that sensitization rates are primary correlated to exposure levels to Ambrosia pollen.