Abstract

Introduction: Exposure to cockroaches was reported to be a cause of asthma in many parts of the world. The aim of the study was to determine the prevalence of cockroach sensitivity in asthmatic children under 5 years of age in Iranian children with asthma.

Material and Method: Ninety two (33 female/59 male) patients were asked to complete a questionnaire covering demographic characteristics, and were subjected to skin prick testing for cockroach allergen. Blood samples were also withdrawn for assessment of total serum IgE and eosinophilia.

Results: Twenty seven percent (n=25) of subjects had positive skin test results for cockroach allergen. There were no significant correlations between the prevalence of cockroach skin test positivity in male and female children, rural and urban areas or infants under 2 years and older. The age of the youngest subject with a positive skin test for cockroach was 2 months. Moreover, the parent’s level of education and the type and age of children’s residence had no effect on the prevalence of cockroach skin test positivity. There was also no significant correlation between the total serum IgE and eosinophilia and the prevalence of cockroach skin test positivity.

Conclusion: Cockroach is an important source of domestic infestations in the city of Shiraz. Sensitization to cockroach allergens may develop early in life. Skin test for cockroach allergen in asthmatic children may provide information for programming environmental control strategies.