Sensitization of Common Allergens and Cosensitization Patterns Among Children in Guangzhou, China.

BACKGROUND

Pediatric allergic diseases vary by region. Subtropical sensitization profiles and their clinical implications remain poorly defined.

METHOD: In this retrospective study, specific immunoglobulin E (sIgE) levels to eight common allergens were obtained from children assessed for allergy-associated symptoms in our department between November 1, 2017, and April 29, 2020.

RESULT: Of the 1755 patients, Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus (Der p) (46.5%) and Dermatophagoides farinae (Der f; 45.7%) showed high rates of sensitization. More than 80% of shrimp-sensitized children exhibited cross-reactivity to Der p, Der f, and cockroach. After adjusting for potential confounding variables, inhalant sensitization (OR = 2.131; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.506-3.015; p  < 0.001) and polysensitization (OR = 1.480; 95% CI: 1.023-2.141; p = 0.038) were both associated with an increased risk of allergic airway disease.

CONCLUSION

Our study identified the "mite-shrimp" sensitization cluster in subtropical children and establishes inhalant sensitization and polysensitization as the key risk factor in allergic respiratory diseases. These findings support the development of region-specific and component-resolved diagnostic strategies for pediatric allergy prevention.