MITE (DER-P-I, DER-F-I), CAT (FEL-D-I) AND DOG (CAN-F-I) ALLERGENS INDUST FROM SWEDISH DAY-CARE-CENTERS

Early exposure to allergens is important for sensitization to inhalant allergens and it has been reported that there is a causal relationshi p between allergen exposure and bronchial asthma. We investigated the levels of major mite (Der pI/Der fI), cat (Fel dI) and dog (Can fI) al lergen levels in dust collected from various locations in seven daycar e centres (22 sections). The allergen levels were related to the chara cteristics of the day-care centres. Children and staff were questioned about contacts with animals, and cleaning personnel were asked about methods and frequency of cleaning. Mite allergen was found in nine of the 22 sections. The concentrations varied between < 16 ng/g and 106 n g/g dust (median < 16 ng/g). Mite allergen was not detected in any flo or dust sample. Cat and dog allergen was detected in all centres and s ections. The concentrations of dog allergen (median 4.3 mu g/g; range < 60 ng-21 mu g/g) were significantly higher (P < 0.05) than that of c at allergen (median 1.6 mu g/g; range < 16 ng-22.8 mu g/g). Higher amo unts of both Fel d I and Can fI were observed on mattresses/sofas/cush ion like toys and curtains than on tables/chairs and floors. The level s of cat or dog allergen on floors significantly correlated with the t otal number of children and staff with either a cat or a dog at home a nd or frequent contacts with them. Neither cleaning methods nor the fr equency of cleaning influenced the allergen concentrations. The concen tration of Fel dI was significantly lower (P < 0.05) in washed than in never washed curtains. We conclude that Fel dI and Can fI allergens a re ubiquitous in day-care centres. The allergens are probably carried there in the clothes of children and staff. Day-care centres should be considered a cause of exposure to indoor allergens. Curtains, toys an d upholstery were the most important reservoirs. We suggest that the c oncentration of allergen in curtains reflects long-term exposure to ai rborne indoor allergens, since they are mainly exposed to airborne all ergens.