|
|
 |
JACI Highlights - October 2006
Salo et al - Exposure to Alternaria alternata in US homes is associated with asthma symptoms
In the October 2006 issue of the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Salo and colleagues investigated whether exposure to the fungus Alternaria alternata in US homes was associated with asthma-related outcomes. Exposure to this fungus is a risk factor for asthma; however, few studies have examined exposures in indoor environments. The authors used questionnaires, sample collection, and inspection of housing units to collect the necessary data. They found that 95-99% of dust samples collected from five locations in the homes had detectable levels of the fungus, and the prevalence of current asthma increased significantly with higher antigen levels. Their findings show that exposure to Alternaria alternata in US homes is associated with active asthma symptoms and suggest that reducing indoor exposure to the fungus may help control asthma exacerbations.
<back>
|
