Socio-environmental profile of child and adolescents sensitized by house dust mite in northeast of Brazil

Abstract Introduction The association regarding the atopic sensitization to mite aeroallergens and the socio-environmental features is still inconsistent. Objectives We analyzed the role played by socioeconomic and environmental factors in the prevalence of sensitization to house dust mite (HDM) allergens, and associated with the risk of developing asthma symptoms. Patients and methods This is a case–control study conducted with 108 patients, aged 1–17. We inquired about family habits, socioeconomic and environmental features. We applied the International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood questionnaire. Results We observed patients sensitized to all HDM tested, Derp (42%), Derf (37%) and Blot (33%). Middle family income (OR: 2.74; CI95%: 1.127–6.684), exposure to dog (OR: 3.758, CI95%: 1.127–6.684) and artificial climatization (OR: 4.319, CI95%: 1.398–13.348) were associated with sensitization to Derp. We also observed protective factors, such as sharing of dormitories, washing cycle for bedspreads and the presence of basic sanitation. An increased risk of sensitization to Derf was associated with Blot sensitization (OR: 3.172, CI95%: 1.083–9.292) and presence of mold on the walls (OR: 3.095, CI95%: 1.063–9.008). A protective factor was dormitory sharing. For sensitization to Blot, we observed an increase in the risk associated with Derp sensitization (OR: 3.462, CI95%: 1.191–10.061) and exposure to dog (OR: 3.255, CI95%: 0.987–10.736). In addition, sensitization to Blot increases the risk of developing asthma symptoms (OR: 2.732, CI95%: 0.981–7.606). Conclusion Our data show distinct sociodemographic and environmental relations that lead to HDM sensitization and increased probability of development of allergic diseases.