Common environmental allergenic fungi causing respiratory allergy in North of Iran

Abstract

The aim of this study was to isolate and identify airborne fungi from locations in Babol city, Babolkenar forest and a beach on the Caspian Sea (all in North part of Iran) in spring and summer. Of 126 samples collected, the most clinically important isolated fungi were Mucor spp. (18.6%) in the forest, Alternaria spp. (13.4%) at the beach; and Cladophialophora spp. (15.8%), Mucor spp. (11.7%) and Alternaria spp. (10.6%) in the urban areas. Non-sporulating fungal isolates were grouped in Mycelia sterilia. The concentration of air spora in the forest location was significantly greater than the other locations (p<0.05). In this study, the highest quantities of isolated fungi were found in the summer. The results showed that Alternaria spp., Cladophialophora spp. and Mucor spp. were the most predominant fungi isolated in the different locations. Since some allergenic fungi have been shown to play a role in the appearance of clinical signs in allergic conditions, the results of this study can be used by physicians and veterinarians for the diagnosis and treatment of allergies.