Sensitization to Aspergillus antigens in perennial rhinitis.

This study was conducted to determine the frequency of sensitization to Aspergillus antigens in 27 patients with perennial rhinitis. Immediate cutaneous reactivity was observed in 7 (26%) patients. In 3 of these 7 patients, hypersensitivity was restricted to Aspergillus antigens alone. One patient had an isolated late cutaneous reaction. Hypersensitivity was observed most commonly with A. flavus. Serum precipitins to A. flavus were detected in one patient. It is possible that sensitization to Aspergillus antigens may play an important role in the causation of perennial rhinitis and could also increase the risk of developing other Aspergillus associated hypersensitivity respiratory disorders subsequently.