Allergen-Specific Immunoglobulin E Distribution and Correlations in Pediatric Patients: A Retrospective Study in Guangzhou, China.

INTRODUCTION

This study aimed to analyze allergen profiles associated with respiratory allergic diseases in pediatric populations in Guangzhou, China, and provide a theoretical basis for prevention and management strategies.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted among 1,230 children between 0 and 14 years of age who underwent allergen-specific immunoglobulin E antibody testing via immunoblotting at a hospital in Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China, between January 2020 and January 2024. Positivity rates for allergens were analyzed and compared across categories (type and grade), age groups, seasons, and sex.

RESULTS

Sensitization to at least one allergen was detected in 43.9% (n = 540) of the children. The overall sensitization rate did not differ significantly by sex or among age groups (p > 0.05). The predominant inhalant allergen was Dermatophagoides farinae/Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus (22.93%, n = 282), while the most common food allergen was egg white/egg yolk (10.73%, n = 132) (p < 0.05). Allergen positivity ranged from one to five allergen types, with frequency decreasing as the number of allergens increased (p < 0.05). A shift in the dominant allergen type was observed with increasing age: food allergens were common among infants and toddlers (p < 0.05), whereas inhalant allergens were dominant among preschool and school-age children (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

The allergen sensitization spectrum among children with respiratory allergies in Guangzhou exhibits a distinct pattern that evolves with age. The predominant allergens among infants and toddlers were food-based, specifically milk, beef/lamb, and egg white/egg yolk, whereas among preschool and school-age children, inhalant allergies, particularly D. farinae/D. pteronyssinus and house dust, were most prevalent. These region-specific findings highlight the importance of implementing age-appropriate strategies for the diagnosis, prevention, and management of pediatric respiratory allergic diseases.