Changing trends in aeroallergen sensitization: Evidence for gender-specific profiles.

BACKGROUND

Sex-related differences in allergic diseases are recognized; however, variation in aeroallergen sensitization patterns across clinical populations remains incompletely characterized.

OBJECTIVE

To examine sex-specific differences in sensitization profiles and polysensitization across two independent clinical cohorts.

METHODS

Skin prick test (SPT) results and serum total IgE levels from 226 participants were retrospectively analyzed from two cross-sectional cohorts (2005-2006 and 2011-2012) at a tertiary referral center. Sensitization patterns and polysensitization were compared by sex and diagnosis. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to assess independent associations, adjusting for age, diagnosis, and cohort.

RESULTS

In the earlier cohort, females exhibited higher total IgE levels and a greater prevalence of allergic rhinitis, whereas asthma predominated among males. In the later cohort, males demonstrated broader sensitization profiles and higher polysensitization rates. After adjustment for age and diagnosis, sex remained independently associated with polysensitization (aOR 0.41, 95% CI 0.17-0.99, p=0.048), while cohort differences were not statistically significant. House dust mites were the most prevalent allergen in both cohorts.

CONCLUSIONS

Sex significantly influences aeroallergen sensitization patterns in clinical populations. The observed cohort differences appear to be largely explained by demographic and diagnostic composition rather than definitive temporal trends.