LAUSR

Rationale: Sensitization to Aspergillus fumigatus (Af) can amplify symptoms of respiratory allergies, but data verifying the clinical and diagnostic relevance of IgE reactivity to Af are insufficient. Objective: The aim was to determine frequency of sensitization to Af in children and assessment the clinical picture of respiratory allergy. Methods: The study included 798 outpatients aged 1 to 18 years old treated in allergological centre, Saratov. Aspergillus infection and allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis were excluded. For identification of IgE antibodies used specific panel of 20 common inhalant allergens, including Af (panel «Rida Allergy Screen», R-BIOPHARM, Germany). Results: From 2010 to 2013 increased number of patients with sensitization to Af: 6,4% in 2010; 8,2% (2011); 10,9% (2012); 14,3% (2014). Monosensitization to Af diagnosed in 2.5%, most had concomitant sensitization to other fungi (24.69%). The concentration of allergen specific IgE for Af was moderately high (average from 0.7 to 3.49 IU/ml). 84.0% of this patients had a diagnosis of persistent perennial allergic rhinitis. In the younger age groups (median age 5 years) symptoms of involving of paranasal sinuses (nasal congestion, recurrent headaches) were less frequently (48.15%) than in the older age group (median age 8 years) - 94.4%. The prevalence of cough and bronchial hyperreactivity was similar in both groups (40.7%). Sensitization to Af frequently associated with epidermal allergy – 62,9% (to cat, dog, horse). Conclusions: IgE sensitization to Af increases the risk of rhinosinusitis in children with allergic rhinitis, and often combined with allergen-induced inflammation in epidermal allergy.