<i>Aspergillus</i> Species and House Dust Mites: Their Allergenicity and Contribution: A Review Article

Abstract

Allergies are pathological manifestations originating from a trigger-sensitized immune system. <em>Aspergillus</em> species have been reported to be one of the important inhalant allergens in different geographical regions of the world. House dust mite (HDM) allergens play a major role in causing allergic diseases. The emerging literature indicates the allergenicity and contribution of <em>Aspergillus</em> species and HDMs. Allergies erupt when innocuous foreign components are confused as foes by the immune surveillance. The incidence of fungal sensitization in patients with allergic respiratory diseases has been reported from 2.3% to even 80% in various studies worldwide. Human skin scales provide food for both mites and fungi. Fungi may either constitute a food supplement for mites or may have an indirect effect by decomposing human dander, thus making it more accessible for HDMs. There is a mutual relationship between fungi and HDMs. In addition to avoid exposure to an allergen as a secondary or tertiary preventive strategy, which is often not sufficiently effective against domestic mites, the treatment of mite allergy is mainly based on allergen-specific immunotherapy (AIT). Treatment with azole antifungal drugs in patients with severe asthma is effective and improves patient quality of life.