What is a house dust mite that causes allergy? - briefly
The «house dust mite» is a microscopic arthropod, primarily Dermatophagoides species, that thrives in indoor environments rich in human skin scales and fabric fibers. Its fecal particles and body fragments contain allergenic proteins that provoke IgE‑mediated reactions such as rhinitis, asthma, and eczema.
What is a house dust mite that causes allergy? - in detail
The domestic dust mite (Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus and D. farinae) is a microscopic arthropod that thrives in warm, humid indoor environments. It feeds on shed human skin cells, proliferating in bedding, upholstered furniture, carpets, and curtains where moisture levels exceed 50 %. Adult mites measure 0.2–0.3 mm, are invisible to the naked eye, and complete their life cycle in 2–3 weeks.
Allergenic proteins are contained in the mite’s fecal pellets and body fragments. When disturbed, these particles become airborne and are inhaled, provoking immune responses in sensitized individuals. Common symptoms include sneezing, nasal congestion, itchy eyes, and wheezing, which may develop into chronic asthma. Diagnosis relies on skin‑prick testing or specific IgE blood assays that detect antibodies to mite‑derived allergens such as Der p 1, Der p 2, Der f 1, and Der f 2.
Control strategies focus on reducing mite populations and exposure to allergenic particles:
- Maintain indoor relative humidity below 50 % using dehumidifiers or air‑conditioning.
- Wash bedding, pillowcases, and washable curtains weekly in water ≥ 60 °C.
- Replace upholstered furniture with leather or vinyl surfaces; vacuum with HEPA‑rated filters.
- Use allergen‑impermeable covers for mattresses and pillows.
- Remove or limit wall‑to‑wall carpeting; consider low‑pile rugs that can be cleaned regularly.
- Eliminate dust‑collecting clutter and regularly clean hard floors with damp mops.
Environmental monitoring kits can quantify allergen levels, guiding the effectiveness of interventions. Persistent symptoms despite mitigation may require pharmacologic therapy, such as antihistamines, intranasal corticosteroids, or allergen‑specific immunotherapy, administered under medical supervision.