Researchers at Children's Mercy Hospitals and Clinics publish new data on allergies

   "Evidence that exposure to high concentrations of fungal spores, antigens, or metabolites is associated with asthma development is limited. However, because mechanisms of asthma genesis are poorly understood, so too are the mechanisms of this potential association. This association is not proof of causality. Stronger evidence supports the hypothesis that fungal exposure triggers symptoms in asthmatic individuals. Proposed mechanisms have been tested and correlations between exposure and symptoms demonstrated. Though some correlations remain speculative, controlled studies could test such hypotheses. Because asthma is common and fungal exposure is ubiquitous, it is surprising that asthmatics don't have more symptoms when exposed to fungi. Fortunately, symptoms are dose dependent, creating an opportunity to develop clinically effective interventions," wrote J.M. Portnoy and colleagues, Children's Mercy Hospitals and Clinics.

   The researchers concluded: "Given the right guidance, even patients with severe asthma can create healthy indoor environments."

   Portnoy and colleagues published their study in Current Allergy and Asthma Reports (Importance of mold allergy in asthma. Current Allergy and Asthma Reports, 2008;8(1):71-8).

   For more information, contact J.M. Portnoy, Children's Mercy Hospitals and Clinics, Section of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, 2401 Gillham Road, Kansas City, MO 64108 USA..

   Publisher contact information for the journal Current Allergy and Asthma Reports is: Current Science Inc., 400 Market Street, Ste. 700, Philadelphia, PA 19106, USA.

   Keywords: United States, Kansas City, Allergies, Allergy Medicine, Asthma.

   This article was prepared by Immunotherapy Weekly editors from staff and other reports. Copyright 2008, Immunotherapy Weekly via NewsRx.com.

Return to Immunotherapy Alert Section