Study on the fungal aeroallergen concentration in the Texas Panhandle using a Burkard Volumetric Spore Trap

Abstract

Rationale This investigation was aimed at analyzing the relationship between the meteorological conditions, diurnal variations and the fungal aeroallergen data of the North West Texas Panhandle and to find the correlation between the aeroallergen index and frequency of allergic rhinitis recorded in the allergy clinic. Methods Daily mold spore count was determined by analyzing the Melinex tape from the Burkard Volumetric Spore Trap. Samples were analyzed in every 24 hours and mold spore concentration per cubic meter was determined. The data were correlated with maximum and minimum temperature, daily precipitation and peak wind speed. The daily clinical data were collected from the Allergy A.R.T.S. and were correlated with the daily fungal aeroallergen index. Results The most frequent fungal aeroallergens present during Sept. 2002 to Sept. 2003 were fungal spores like Alternaria, ascospores from Pezizales, Dreschlera, Cladosporium, and Curvularia. Mold spore count had an inverse relationship with the daily temperature. Alternaria conidia were the most abundant component of the dry air spora. We found an association between Alternaria concentration and the cases of severe asthma. Fungal spore concentrations did show more susceptibility to meteorological conditions on a daily basis than did pollen concentrations. Ascomycetes concentrations significantly increased in the hours just following a rain shower. Conclusions We found a very significant correlation between the mold spore concentration and the humidity. A little rain increased the spore count significantly. There was a positive correlation between the number of patients' visits with the increase spore index.