Impact of age and allergen type on sensitization changes in children with chronic rhinitis
Issued Date
2025-09-01
Resource Type
ISSN
01655876
eISSN
18728464
Scopus ID
2-s2.0-105012718324
Journal Title
International Journal of Pediatric Otorhinolaryngology
Volume
196
Rights Holder(s)
SCOPUS
Bibliographic Citation
International Journal of Pediatric Otorhinolaryngology Vol.196 (2025)
Suggested Citation
Nokkaew S., Jotikasthira W., Kiewngam P., Sawatchai A., Kanchongkittiphon W., Manuyakorn W. Impact of age and allergen type on sensitization changes in children with chronic rhinitis. International Journal of Pediatric Otorhinolaryngology Vol.196 (2025). doi:10.1016/j.ijporl.2025.112508 Retrieved from: https://repository.li.mahidol.ac.th/handle/123456789/111644
Title
Impact of age and allergen type on sensitization changes in children with chronic rhinitis
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Corresponding Author(s)
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Abstract
Background: Aeroallergen sensitization evaluation aids in diagnosing and managing chronic rhinitis. Objective: To investigate changes in allergen sensitization over time in children with rhinitis. Methods: Children with chronic rhinitis who underwent aeroallergen skin prick tests (SPT) between 2009 and 2019 were re-evaluated with a second SPT between 2022 and 2024. Sensitization changes were assessed by comparing initial and re-evaluation SPT results. A negative converter was defined as a previously positive test that became negative. Results: Among 300 children (mean age 11.5 years), positive SPT rates increased from 71.3 % to 83.7 % (p < 0.001). House dust mites (HDM) were the most common sensitization (77 %), followed by cockroaches (24 %). Sensitization patterns changed in 56.7 % of children. HDM sensitization increased across all age groups, while cat sensitization rose significantly in those initially tested before age 5. Negative conversion rates varied by allergen, highest for Careless Weed (85.7 %) and lowest for HDM (1.52 %). Children who became negative converters for Bermuda grass had smaller initial wheal sizes than those who remained positive (3 mm vs. 5.8 mm, p = 0.003). Conclusion: Allergen sensitization patterns evolve over time, influenced by allergen type and patient age. Repeat testing may be necessary, especially for children with uncontrolled rhinitis.