Investigation of the impact of aeroallergens sensitization on allergic rhinitis severity

Background: To date, there is no enough evidence of which allergen is associated with more allergic rhinitis symptoms than the others. Identifying allergens that are associated with significant symptoms and those that cause more symptoms than others can help us in deciding which allergens to include in the immunotherapy regimen and, therefore, may reduce the need for multiple allergens immunotherapy and subsequently improve the safety, adherence to, and efficacy of immunotherapy. Objectives: The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of aeroallergens sensitization on allergic rhinitis severity and to identify allergens which are associated with the most significant symptoms in allergic rhinitis patients. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) clinics at the Jordan University Hospital. During the week prior to the clinic visit, patients completed a diary of their allergic symptoms. Skin prick test with 18 standardized allergen extracts were performed in all patients. We used linear regression analysis to identify allergens which independently contribute to patients symptoms. Results: Eight allergens had a statistically significant and independent effect on allergic symptoms as compared to other allergens. Olive pollen sensitization has the most significant contribution to allergic symptoms. Conclusions: This is the first study that reports differences in the effect of allergen sensitization on allergic symptoms severity. Olive pollen should be given the highest attention, exposure should be avoided, and it should be considered the principle allergen when designing the immunotherapy regimen for those who are sensitized.