What is allergy from the tick Pteronyssinus? - briefly
Allergy to Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus is an IgE‑mediated hypersensitivity to proteins present in mite feces and body fragments. It commonly produces sneezing, nasal congestion, itchy eyes, and can aggravate asthma.
What is allergy from the tick Pteronyssinus? - in detail
Allergy caused by the mite «Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus» results from immune sensitisation to proteins present in the mite’s feces, body fragments and saliva. These proteins act as allergens that trigger IgE‑mediated reactions in susceptible individuals.
Exposure occurs primarily in indoor environments where dust accumulates, such as bedding, upholstered furniture and carpeting. High humidity and warm temperatures promote mite proliferation, increasing the concentration of airborne allergen particles that range from 10 to 40 µm in size.
The immunological cascade begins when allergen‑specific IgE binds to high‑affinity receptors on mast cells and basophils. Subsequent cross‑linking of IgE molecules induces degranulation, releasing histamine, leukotrienes and cytokines. This process generates the characteristic immediate‑type hypersensitivity response and may be followed by a late‑phase reaction mediated by eosinophils and Th2 lymphocytes.
Clinical manifestations include:
- Nasal congestion, rhinorrhoea and sneezing (allergic rhinitis)
- Itchy, watery eyes (allergic conjunctivitis)
- Cough, wheeze and shortness of breath (allergic asthma)
- Pruritic skin eruptions, particularly in areas of direct contact with contaminated textiles (atopic dermatitis)
Diagnosis relies on a combination of patient history, skin‑prick testing with standardized mite extracts and measurement of serum-specific IgE levels. Positive test results, together with consistent symptoms, confirm sensitisation.
Management strategies encompass:
- Pharmacotherapy: intranasal corticosteroids, antihistamines, leukotriene receptor antagonists and, for asthma, inhaled corticosteroids with long‑acting β2‑agonists.
- Allergen avoidance: regular washing of bedding at ≥ 60 °C, use of allergen‑impermeable mattress covers, reduction of indoor humidity below 50 %, removal of wall‑to‑wall carpeting and frequent vacuuming with HEPA filters.
- Immunotherapy: subcutaneous or sublingual administration of mite‑derived extracts to induce long‑term tolerance.
Prognosis improves with strict environmental control and adherence to prescribed medication regimens. Persistent exposure without mitigation may lead to chronic airway inflammation and increased risk of severe asthma exacerbations.