Epidemiology and allergen sensitisation in patients undergoing prick testing.

BACKGROUND

Epidemiological data on allergen sensitisation in Costa Rica are limited, while prevalence of allergic diseases in the world is rising. This study aims to determine the epidemiology and patterns of allergen sensitisation in patients who underwent prick testing.

METHODS

A retrospective descriptive-observational study was conducted, including 1001 patients aged >12 years undergoing prick testing between 2019 and 2021. Descriptive statistics were used to collect data on demographics, aeroallergens and food sensitisation.

RESULTS

The study population had a mean age of 35.9 ± 16.3 years and was predominantly female. Most patients were from San José, with chronic rhinitis being the most common pre-test diagnosis. Mites (Dermatophagoides farinae, Dermatophagoides pteronissinus), feline epithelium and cockroach mixture were the most common aeroallergens, while shrimp and shellfish were the main food allergens. A significant increase in sensitisation was observed in patients with pre-existing allergic conditions.

CONCLUSION

The results underline the high prevalence of allergen sensitisation in patients with allergic diseases in Costa Rica, especially in urban areas, and highlight the importance of allergen identification for effective management and prevention.