Niveaux d'allergènes domestiques tolérables par l'homme

Allergic diseases rank second among known inflictions in the United States. In France 50 % of all allergies could be attributed to house dust substances, such as mites, pet dander, insects, fungi. Allergen elimination constitutes an important step in allergological treatment. However, complete eradication of allergen sources is not feasable in all cases, stressing the need for advised and aimed levels for the major allergens and their sources in the home. Based on the concepts of MAC NAEL and ADI developed in the science of toxicology, and epidemiological data on sensitization and allergic symptoms, preliminary exposure limits are proposed for — among others — mites, cat dander, fungi, pollen in the indoor home environment. Such hygienic indices should be further tested clinically, but may already assist patient and physician in an effective allergological home sanitation.