Indoor Allergen Control Measures: A Practical Summary

By Peter B. Boggs, MD

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Objectives

1. Identify the most important indoor allergens affecting allergic asthma.
2. Understand and apply indoor allergen remediation measures in the care of allergic asthma.
3. Identify encasements shown to be effective barriers to house dust mite and pet allergens.
4. Identify laboratories that quantitate allergens in house dust samples.
5. Apply indoor allergen remediation check list to the care of patients with allergic asthma.

Key words

allergens; asthma; remediation measures

Abbreviations

CD = compact disc; HEPA = high-efficiency particulate air

The importance of reducing exposure to indoor allergens in the care of people with allergic asthma has been underscored in both the 1997 and 1999 National Asthma Education and Prevention Program guidelines^1,2 and in recent reviews.^3-5 Effective reduction measures should reduce the total quantity of allergen in the home, the allergen concentration in dust and other sources, and the exposure level of sensitive persons. Effective remediation should lead to reduced symptoms, diminished medication requirements, improved clinical well-being, and an enhanced quality of life.^3-5

The purpose of this article is to present a practical summary of indoor allergen remediation measures that can be effective in the care of people with allergic asthma. The role of indoor allergens as causal agents and triggers of asthma, and their remediation measures, have been extensively reviewed elsewhere^.4-10 Indoor allergen remediation measures summarized here include those for house dust mite, cat, dog, cockroach, and mold allergens.

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