Increased risk of horse sensitization in southwestern Iranian horse riders

OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study has been to investigate the frequency of sensitization to horse allergens and clinical symptoms in horse riders. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A total of 42 horse riders and 50 healthy individuals were examined by means of skin prick tests for a panel of horse and common animal allergens, and pulmonary function tests were done by spirometry. RESULTS: The rate of sensitization to horse allergens was 31% as proven by the skin prick test in horse riders whereas horse sensitization was not seen in the control group. Occupational allergy symptoms were reported by 19 horse riders. Two horse riders with no history of clinical symptoms showed positive skin reactions to horse allergens. CONCLUSIONS: To decrease the high risk of occupational sensitization among horse riders, workplace conditions should be improved to reduce the load of airborne horse allergens.