engleski

Airborne Betulaceae pollen content in the city of Zagreb and implications on pollen allergy

In Northern and Central Europe, pollen from the representatives of the family Betulaceae is a significant contributor to the incidence of pollinosis . This family includes the genera Alnus (alder), Betula (birch) and Corylus (hazel). The allergenic significance of the family Betulaceae is based on the fact that the trees are widespread and shed large quantities of windborne pollen, which rapidly release their allergenic substances in the respiratory passages. The aim of this study was to analyse airborne Betulaceae pollen content in the air of Zagreb, as well as to consider possible implications regarding pollen allergies.The study was carried out during three seasons (2002-2004). Total annual airborne pollen of Alnus, Corylus and Betula greatly varied from year to year. The differences in the onset of pollen seasons of Alnus, Corylus and Betula noted in Zagreb in 2002-2004 were due to weather conditions, which are known to affect their pollination. In all studied years, pollen season peaks were recorded on days with temperature above 0 °C and without or minimal precipitation. The mean number of days with airborne pollen concentration exceeding the level provoking the symptoms of allergic reaction was 15, 16 and even 29 days for alder, hazel and birch, respectively. Looking at the clinical results, reaction to Betulaceae pollen have been studied since 2004. Sensitivity to Betulaceae pollen was found in 225 patients with pollinosis out of 678 patients. This suggests a 33.18% sensitivity to Betulaceae pollen.The results of the present study provide useful data for allergologists to reach accurate diagnoses, and timely information on airborne pollen types and concentrations for individuals with pollen hypersensitivity. Minimization of the symptoms of pollen allergy is strictly related to avoidance of exposure to large doses of the allergen.

airborne pollen; Betulaceae; pollen allergy

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