Dust mites avoidance

There has been debate about the most effective approaches for allergen avoidance. For house dust mite avoidance, treatment of bedding [240( I b)] and laundry are effective. There is less certainty about replacement of fitted carpets with smooth flooring, and cleaning of hard surfaces, and even less about vacuuming, air filtration, ionisers, and air conditioning. Acaricides are unlikely to be useful [214(NC)]. 

Shapiro GG, Wighton TG, Chinn T, Zuckrman J, Eliassen AH, Kcciano JF, et al House dust mite avoidance for children with asthma in homes of low-income families. J Allergy Clin Immunol 1999 103 1069-1074. (Ib)... 

Cloosterman SG, SchermerTR, Bijl-Hofland ID, van derHS, Bmnekreef B, Van Den Elshout FJ, et al Effects of house dust mite avoidance measures on Der p 1 concentrations and clinical condition of mild adult house dust mite-allergic asthmatic patients, using no inhaled steroids. Clin Exp Allergy 1999 29 1336-1346. (Ib)... 

Effect of house dust mite avoidance on allergic symptoms, exacerbation rates, need for medication and health costs. 

Kniest FM, Young E, Van Praag MC, Vos H, Kort HS, Koers WJ, et al. Clinical evaluation of a double-bUnd dust-mite avoidance trial with mite-allergic rhinitic patients. Clin Exp Allergy 1991 21(l) 39-47. 

The first step in managing a patient with AR is to recommend lifestyle modifications. Patients should be encouraged to avoid allergens whenever possible (see Table 59-1). This may be difficult, however, especially for those with PAR who have continuous exposure to allergens. In PAR, several environmental adjustments should be made. For example, patients with sensitivity to dust mites should use impermeable covers for... 

Marks GB, Tovey ER, Green W, Shearer M, Salome CM, Woolcock AJ House dust mite allergen avoidance A randomized controlled trial of surface chemical treatment and encasement of bedding. Clin Exp Allergy 1994 24 1078-1083. (Ib)... 

Preventive Measures. Patients are taught to avoid triggers of attacks such as house dust mites, pets, cockroaches, cigarette smoke, and air pollutants. 

Infants at high allergy risk (allergic disease in atopic parents or siblings) may benefit through avoidance of pets and dust mites during the 1st year of life. 

Avoid wall-to-wall carpets that can house dust mites. 

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