Feature - House dust mite sensitisation in children with asthma & eczema

A recent study undertaken by Shek et al at the Department of Pediatrics in Singapore suggests that sensitisation to house dust mites (HDM) is highly prevalent among the young atopic population in Singapore.

Previously published data suggest that individuals with skin allergies show preferred sensitisation to Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus while individuals with pure respiratory allergies show preferred sensitisation to Blomia tropicalis. The aim of the study was to compare the sensitisation profiles between children with asthma and those with eczema to D. pteronyssinus and B. tropicalis and their specific allergens.

In conclusion, asthma and eczema individuals showed different sensitisation profiles to HDM. These findings highlighted possible mechanisms for different manifestation of allergy.

For more about the study about house dust mites and sensitisation in children with asthma and in children with eczema follow this link