METHODS: A retrospective chart review analysis was performed based on ImmunoCap IgE blood testing data recorded at Children's Mercy Hospital from 2001 to 2015 among both male and female patients less than 18 years old. A positive test was noted as an IgE value greater than or equal to 0.35 for both allergens. Patients tested for both Aspergillus and Cladosporium were included. The proportion of patients with co-existing allergies were compared using Pearson's chi-square test. Age comparisons were done using two-sample t-tests.
RESULTS: A total of 2425 patients were identified with both Aspergillus and Cladosporium testing. Of these patients, 2082 (85.9%) were allergic to Aspergillus. Patients allergic to Aspergillus were significantly older when compared to those who were not allergic to Aspergillus (7.8 years vs. 6.7 years respectively; p<.001). The proportion of Aspergillus allergy did not differ when comparing males and females (85.8% vs. 85.8%, respectively; p=.999). The proportion of patients allergic to Cladosporium was significantly higher among those allergic to Aspergillus (90.1%) compared to non-allergic (39.4%; p<.001).
CONCLUSIONS: Co-existing allergies to Cladosporium and Aspergillus occur frequently, which will affect recommendations provided to families regarding exposure and avoidance. Avoidance of both allergens will likely result in decreased allergy symptoms for patients with positive tests to either allergen.