Allergen sensitization evaluation and allergen avoidance education in an inner-city adult cohort with persistent asthma

Predictors of asthma-related health care utilization and quality of life among inner-city patients with asthma

“…Because this is an observational cohort study, our data on allergy evaluation and allergic sensitization are based on patient self-report (not direct testing), so there is always potential for recall biases or inaccuracies. 36 Patients with worse asthma control may be more likely to report allergic sensitization if they are aware of a potential association between asthma and aeroallergens. However, the validity of self-report for most straightforward medical events and risk factors is well established, 37 and our approach was similar to that of other recent asthma and allergy epidemiologic studies.…”

Update on glucocorticoid action and resistance

“…118 In addition, patients who are allergic to pet allergens who live with these animals require greater glucocorticoid treatment, 118 and similar effects are seen with other environmental allergens. 203 The Denver group has examined the effect of allergen exposure on GR function and GR-binding affinity in PBMCs from atopic asthmatic patients. 204 During the ragweed season, GR ligand-binding affinity was reduced in PBMCs, and this effect could be mimicked in vitro by exposure of cells to cat allergen for 48 hours.…”

“…204 Importantly, asthma morbidity, mortality, and health services use are highest among innercity populations, who have the least evaluations for allergen sensitization, little allergen avoidance education, and the least patient adherence with the National Asthma Education and Prevention Program Expert Panel recommendations. 203 …”

“…Identify and remove potential allergens that might trigger the patient's disease and institute appropriate environmental controls at home, in school, and at work, with the focus on areas where the patient spends the greatest time. 203 Step 3. Review the patient's inhaler technique. This should be incorporated as routine during the physical examination.…”

Food Allergy as a Risk Factor for Asthma Morbidity in Adults

“…The association of asthma morbidity and allergy has also long been recognized. Sensitization and exposure to indoor allergens play a key role in difficult-to-control asthma (7,(11)(12)(13). Studies have shown a correlation between positive skin tests for allergens (14) as well as elevated serum IgE levels with not only asthma prevalence but asthma severity (15,16).…”