DIAGNOSTIC TEST PROFILE OF IgE MEDIATED ATOPIC DISEASE IN SAUDI
ARABIA
Al-Frayh,
Abdulrahman
College of Medicine &
King Khalid University Hospital, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Objectives: The kingdom of Saudi Arabia is a large country with significant
climatic and geographical variation. There has also been tremendous
development and modernization in the Kingdom during the past two
decades. These
developmental factors, directly or indirectly, contribute to the growth,
dissemination and/or provision of sources for allergen accumulation.
Methods: We conducted environmental and allergological studies in
different areas of the Kingdom using volumetric sampling for outdoor and
immunochemical study for indoor allergen sources.
Results: The study revealed significant regional variations for both
indoor and outdoor allergens. For example, Der p 1 was prevalent
in mountainous while Der f 1 was prevalent in coasla
region. Agricultural areas with very low composition of Der
p 1 and Der
j 1 did not show any
variation. Fel d 1 and Per a 1 were recorded
in higher composition but no clear variations were seen. Diagnostic results
using SPT methods were also variable for showing up to 70% reactions with
commercial extract including Prosopis
pollen extract.
Conclusion: Based on the aerobiological information obtained, we have
prepared a diagnostic profile of allergens for screening of allergic
individuals. Preparation of profiles for each region is also underway. The
study resulted as a background basis for the selection of diagnostic
antigen and elimination of those not directly relevant to the patients'
ambient environment.
Supported by a grant from King Abdulaziz City for Science &
Technology (KACST A.R. 17-65)