The relationship between airborne pollen and fungal spore concentrations and seasonal pollen allergy symptoms in Cracow in 1997-1999

• Published in: Aerobiologia Vol. 18; no. 2; pp. 153 - 161
• Main Authors: Myszkowska, D, Stepalska, D, Obtulowicz, K, Porebski, G
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: 01.06.2002
• ISSN: 0393-5965
• DOI: 10.1023/A:1020603717191

The investigation of airborne pollen and fungal spore concentrations was carried out in Cracow between 1997-1999. For this study the volumetric method has been employed (Burkard). At the same time the clinical diagnosis of pollen allergy in 40 patients was obtained on the basis of an interview, positive skin prick tests with pollen extracts and increased specific IgE level. An increase in seasonal allergy symptoms in all patients occurred from the middle of May to the middle of August. Eighty eight percent of the patients (35 out of 40) were sensitive to Poaceae pollen and about 50% of them were additionally sensitive to tree and herb pollen excluding grasses. For patients with additional allergy to tree pollen the seasonal symptoms started at the end of March (Betula) while for patients with additional allergy to herb pollen it was extended to the middle of September (Artemisia). Five people out of 40 revealed positive skin reactions to Alternaria spores and an increase in specific IgE level. Positive skin reaction to Cladosporium spores with no increase in specific IgE level occurred in 2 patients. The increase in seasonal allergy symptoms in people sensitive to Alternaria spores noted in July and August could be caused not only by these spores but also by Poaceae pollen.