Measurement of Indoor Airborne Mite Allergens

Abstract

To evaluate the extent of exposure to airborne mite allergens, we measured major mite allergens in indoor environments with an immunoassay using allergen-specific antibodies. The levels of mite allergens trapped by the sampler were measured with a highly sensitive immunoassay. We found heavy exposure to mite allergens from bedding during sleep. Bedding is likely one of the major reservoirs of mite allergens. When the used bedding was replaced with new allergen-free bedding, we detected a decrease in the airborne allergen levels. The use of new bedding seems to be an effective countermeasure against airborne mite allergen exposure.

Keywords

• airborne allergen
• allergen avoidance
• bedding
• house dust
• mite