House dust mites and Der p I in Tenerife (Canary Islands, Spain): the relative importance of other non Dermatophagoides spp mites.

BACKGROUND

House dust mites constitute the major etiologic factor causing sensitization and asthma its geographical distribution map is quite well known, although it is not yet complete. Home environments world-wide show mites that mainly belong to the Piroglyphidae family, the D. pteronyssinus specie being the predominant one. However others have also been considered of interest.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this work was to study the species and to determine the levels of Der p I, Der f I and group II of allergens of Dermatophagoides. Present in houses from Tenerife, Canary Islands (Spain).

METHODS

Dust samples were collected in 130 houses.

RESULTS

D. pteronyssinus was found in 121 (95.3%) homes, being the predominant species in 113 (89%). In 69 (55%) homes, Dermatophagoides spp. were found together with other species from other generus. Mean values for Der p I were 13.7 +/- 13.88 (mean +/- SD), for Der f 1 1.05 +/- 1.83 and for the Group I of allergens 7 +/- 6.77.

CONCLUSION

Although D. pteronyssinus is the predominant species in our area, there are others that may be off importance and should be taken into consideration in the diagnostic, home disallergenization and later treatment of patients.