Prevalence of specific aeroallergen sensitivity on skin prick test in patients with allergic rhinitis in Westchester County

Allergic rhinitis is the most common cause of rhinitis, and is often the diagnosis prompting referral to the allergist for skin prick tests (SPT). The prevalence of positive SPT to different aeroallergens varies with the geographic setting. Westchester County is located in the state of New York, and there are no local data to date reflecting the prevalence of positive SPT. We therefore undertook a study to determine the reactivity to aeroallergens in the local population. The results of SPT to 48 aeroallergens and 2 controls were analyzed in 100 patients referred for allergic rhinitis. 65% had a positive SPT to at least 1 aeroallergen. Amongst the molds, alternaria positivity was noted in 8%, cat hair reacted in 18%, birch antigen was positive in 20% and reactivity to grass mix antigen was observed in 24%. The antigen showing the greatest SPT positivity was the house dust mite (30%). Sensitization rates for other antigens are presented.