Persistent allergic sensitization is associated with asthma and rhinitis among adults

Background: Few studies have described the natural history of allergic sensitization in relation to asthma and rhinitis among adults. Aim: To determine the association between persistence and remission of allergic sensitization with asthma and rhinitis among adults. Methods: In 1994 a sample of 664 adults, 68% of invited, participated in structured interviews and skin prick tests (SPT). The sample was randomly selected from a large Swedish population survey. In 2004, 93% of those traced (n=555), were re-examined with the same methods. The prevalence of asthma, rhinitis and potential risk factors in 1994 were analysed in relation to persistence and remission of allergic sensitization from 1994 to 2004. Results: The remission of allergic sensitization was 32% while the cumulative incidence was 5%. Age 40-60 y (OR 3.4 (95% CI 1.1-10.5)), absence of allergic rhinitis (OR 12.2 (95% CI 3.6-41.1)) and presence of furry animals at home during early childhood (OR 6.5 (95% CI 1.4-30.0)) were associated with remittent sensitization. In subjects with persistent sensitization, prevalence of asthma (25%) and allergic rhinitis (74%) was higher compared with those with remittent sensitization and those never sensitized. Also multi-sensitization was more common in subjects with persistent sensitization (55%) versus remittent cases (6%). Conclusion: In adults, remission of allergic sensitization was more common than incident sensitization. Older age, absence of allergic rhinitis and presence of furry animals at home in early childhood were significantly associated with remission of allergic sensitization. Persistent sensitization was associated with both asthma and rhinitis.