Characteristics of allergen profile, sensitization patterns and Allergic Rhinitis in SouthEast Asia.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: To highlight the characteristics of allergic rhinitis, local allergic rhinitis (LAR), and importance of allergens in Southeast Asian countries.

RECENT FINDINGS: The Asia-Pacific region is very diverse with disparities in the epidemiological data between countries as well as in the unmet needs. The prevalence of allergic rhinitis has markedly increased in the past decades, with a high variation between countries, ranging from 4.5--80.3%. In terms of LAR, the reported prevalence in Southeast Asia is similar to that of other Asian countries (3.7-24.9%) but lower than that in western countries. House dust mites, cockroach, pollens, and molds are major allergens that are known triggers for of allergic rhinitis in this region, whereas the association with helminth infection requires further investigation.

SUMMARY: There are gaps and high variation between countries in Southeast Asia regarding the prevalence of allergic rhinitis and LAR. Further studies are needed to fully elucidate the association between allergens and allergic rhinitis in Southeast Asia.