Background: The mite species Blomia tropicalis is commonly found in tropical and subtropical regions, and it is an important source of allergen in the city of Cartagena, Columbia.
Aim: The study was designed to determine seasonal allergen levels of B. tropicalis in homes of patients with asthma and mite allergy.
Methods: Dust samples from mattresses and floors in 20 homes were collected on a monthly basis for 1 year. Outdoor temperature, relative humidity, and rainfall were recorded. RAST inhibition was performed on extracts of dust samples. Allergen levels were compared with variations in climate.
Results: B. tropicalis allergens were detected in all mattress samples. More than 50% RAST inhibition was detected in 30% of mattress samples and in 4.3% of floor samples, reflecting a high concentration of allergen. Significant correlations were only found between allergen levels and absolute humidity.
Conclusion: Levels of B. tropicalis allergen fluctuated minimally in Cartagena, Colombia.