Étude de la sensibilisation aux pollens de cyprès et d’olivier dans les trois pays du Maghreb

Abstract

ObjectiveWe aimed to determine the prevalence of sensitization to cypress and olive pollens in the 3 Maghreb countries and to analyze the epidemiological-clinical profile of this population. Patients and methodsWe performed a cross-sectional observational study in patients with allergic symptoms. All subjects underwent standard skin-prick testing using a panel of common allergens, including olive and cypresses, and in some cases underwent recombinant assays using rOle e1 and nCup a 1. ResultsFrom 975 files examined, 932 patients were selected. Rhinitis was the most common manifestation (95.3%). The prevalence of cypress and olive tree sensitization was 18.7% and 32.5%, respectively. The prevalence of cypress and olive sensitization was higher in severe rhinitis, conjunctivitis or associated skin allergies and poorly controlled asthma; P<0.05. ConclusionSensitization to olive and cypress pollen is common in the Maghreb countries. Clinical manifestations are mainly related to rhinitis and are often more severe.