[House dust as a cause of disease].

Allergens due to mites, especially to the most common species Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus and D. farinae has been recognized as a major health problem. The role of mites of the family Pyroglyphides as the single most important source of house dust allergens was established in 1964. There has been steady progress in understanding of the way in which allergen from mites can contribute to asthma, rhinitis and atopic dermatitis. Increased knowledge of the biology of mites has also allowed the development of improved protocols for reducing the quantities of mite allergens in house and has resulted in clear evidence that such measures can help patients.