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Lin S, Qi Q, Liu H, Deng X, Trees I, Yuan X, Gallant MP. The Joint Effects of Thunderstorms and Power Outages on Respiratory-Related Emergency Visits and Modifying and Mediating Factors of This Relationship. ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH PERSPECTIVES 2024; 132:67002. [PMID: 38829734 PMCID: PMC11166412 DOI: 10.1289/ehp13237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2023] [Revised: 04/27/2024] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/05/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND While limited studies have evaluated the health impacts of thunderstorms and power outages (POs) separately, few have assessed their joint effects. We aimed to investigate the individual and joint effects of both thunderstorms and POs on respiratory diseases, to identify disparities by demographics, and to examine the modifications and mediations by meteorological factors and air pollution. METHODS Distributed lag nonlinear models were used to examine exposures during three periods (i.e., days with both thunderstorms and POs, thunderstorms only, and POs only) in relation to emergency department visits for respiratory diseases (2005-2018) compared to controls (no thunderstorm/no PO) in New York State (NYS) while controlling for confounders. Interactions between thunderstorms and weather factors or air pollutants on health were assessed. The disparities by demographics and seasons and the mediative effects by particulate matter with aerodynamic diameter ≤ 2.5 μ m (PM 2.5 ) and relative humidity (RH) were also evaluated. RESULTS Thunderstorms and POs were independently associated with total and six subtypes of respiratory diseases in NYS [highest risk ratio (RR) = 1.12; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.08, 1.17], but the impact was stronger when they co-occurred (highest RR = 1.44; 95% CI: 1.22, 1.70), especially during grass weed, ragweed, and tree pollen seasons. The stronger thunderstorm/PO joint effects were observed on chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases, bronchitis, and asthma (lasted 0-10 d) and were higher among residents who lived in rural areas, were uninsured, were of Hispanic ethnicity, were 6-17 or over 65 years old, and during spring and summer. The number of comorbidities was significantly higher by 0.299-0.782/case. Extreme cold/heat, high RH, PM 2.5 , and ozone concentrations significantly modified the thunderstorm-health effect on both multiplicative and additive scales. Over 35% of the thunderstorm effects were mediated by PM 2.5 and RH. CONCLUSION Thunderstorms accompanied by POs showed the strongest respiratory effects. There were large disparities in thunderstorm-health associations by demographics. Meteorological factors and air pollution levels modified and mediated the thunderstorm-health effects. https://doi.org/10.1289/EHP13237.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shao Lin
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University at Albany, State University of New York, Albany, New York, USA
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University at Albany, State University of New York, Albany, New York, USA
| | - Quan Qi
- Department of Economics, University at Albany, State University of New York, Albany, New York, USA
| | - Han Liu
- Population Studies and Training Center, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Xinlei Deng
- Epidemiology Branch, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Ian Trees
- Epidemiology Branch, Division of Population Health Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, Maryland, USA
| | - Xiaojun Yuan
- Department of Information Sciences and Technology, College of Emergency Preparedness, Homeland Security and Cybersecurity, University at Albany, State University of New York, Albany, New York, USA
| | - Mary P. Gallant
- Zuckerberg College of Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Lowell, Lowell, Massachusetts, USA
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Ozdemir C, Kucuksezer UC, Ogulur I, Pat Y, Yazici D, Agache I, Jutel M, Nadeau KC, Akdis M, Akdis CA. How does global warming contribute to disorders originating from an impaired epithelial barrier? Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol 2023; 131:703-712. [PMID: 37619777 DOI: 10.1016/j.anai.2023.08.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2023] [Revised: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 08/04/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023]
Abstract
The epithelial barrier represents the point of contact between the host and the external environment. It is the first line of defense against external insults in the skin and in the gastrointestinal and upper and lower respiratory tracts. The steep increase in chronic disorders in recent decades, including allergies and autoimmune disorders, has prompted studies to investigate the immune mechanisms of their underlying pathogeneses, all of which point to a thought-provoking shared finding: disrupted epithelial barriers. Climate change with global warming has increased the frequency of unpredictable extreme weather events, such as wildfires, droughts, floods, and aberrant and longer pollination seasons, among many others. These increasingly frequent natural disasters can synergistically damage the epithelial barrier integrity in the presence of environmental pollution. A disrupted epithelial barrier induces proinflammatory activation of epithelial cells and alarmin production, namely, epithelitis. The "opened" epithelial barrier facilitates the entry of the external exposome into and underneath the epithelium, triggering an expulsion response driven by inflammatory cells in the area and chronic inflammation. These changes are associated with microbial dysbiosis with colonizing opportunistic pathogens and decreased commensals. These cellular and molecular events are key mechanisms in the pathogenesis of numerous chronic inflammatory disorders. This review summarizes the impact of global warming on epithelial barrier functions in the context of allergic diseases. Further studies in the impact of climate change on the dysfunction of the epithelial barriers are warranted to improve our understanding of epithelial barrier-related diseases and raise awareness of the environmental insults that pose a threat to our health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cevdet Ozdemir
- Institute of Child Health, Department of Pediatric Basic Sciences, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Türkiye; Division of Pediatric Allergy and Immunology, Department of Pediatrics, Istanbul Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Türkiye
| | - Umut Can Kucuksezer
- Aziz Sancar Institute of Experimental Medicine, Department of Immunology, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Türkiye
| | - Ismail Ogulur
- Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research (SIAF), University of Zurich, Davos, Switzerland
| | - Yagiz Pat
- Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research (SIAF), University of Zurich, Davos, Switzerland
| | - Duygu Yazici
- Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research (SIAF), University of Zurich, Davos, Switzerland
| | - Ioana Agache
- Faculty of Medicine, Transylvania University, Brasov, Romania
| | - Marek Jutel
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Wroclaw Medical University, and ALL-MED Medical Research Institute, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Kari C Nadeau
- Department of Environmental Health, T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Harvard University, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Mübeccel Akdis
- Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research (SIAF), University of Zurich, Davos, Switzerland
| | - Cezmi A Akdis
- Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research (SIAF), University of Zurich, Davos, Switzerland; Christine Kühne-Center for Allergy Research and Education, Davos, Switzerland.
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Cardenas A, Fadadu R, Bunyavanich S. Climate change and epigenetic biomarkers in allergic and airway diseases. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2023; 152:1060-1072. [PMID: 37741554 PMCID: PMC10843253 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaci.2023.09.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2023] [Revised: 09/18/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/25/2023]
Abstract
Human epigenetic variation is associated with both environmental exposures and allergic diseases and can potentially serve as a biomarker connecting climate change with allergy and airway diseases. In this narrative review, we summarize recent human epigenetic studies examining exposure to temperature, precipitation, extreme weather events, and malnutrition to discuss findings as they relate to allergic and airway diseases. Temperature has been the most widely studied exposure, with the studies implicating both short-term and long-term exposures with epigenetic alterations and epigenetic aging. Few studies have examined natural disasters or extreme weather events. The studies available have reported differential DNA methylation of multiple genes and pathways, some of which were previously associated with asthma or allergy. Few studies have integrated climate-related events, epigenetic biomarkers, and allergic disease together. Prospective longitudinal studies are needed along with the collection of target tissues beyond blood samples, such as nasal and skin cells. Finally, global collaboration to increase diverse representation of study participants, particularly those most affected by climate injustice, as well as strengthen replication, validation, and harmonization of measurements will be needed to elucidate the impacts of climate change on the human epigenome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andres Cardenas
- Department of Epidemiology and Population Health, Stanford University, Stanford, Calif.
| | - Raj Fadadu
- School of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, Calif
| | - Supinda Bunyavanich
- Division of Allergy and Immunology, Department of Pediatrics, and Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY
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Pat Y, Ogulur I, Yazici D, Mitamura Y, Cevhertas L, Küçükkase OC, Mesisser SS, Akdis M, Nadeau K, Akdis CA. Effect of altered human exposome on the skin and mucosal epithelial barrier integrity. Tissue Barriers 2023; 11:2133877. [PMID: 36262078 PMCID: PMC10606824 DOI: 10.1080/21688370.2022.2133877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2022] [Revised: 08/23/2022] [Accepted: 08/27/2022] [Indexed: 10/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Pollution in the world and exposure of humans and nature to toxic substances is continuously worsening at a rapid pace. In the last 60 years, human and domestic animal health has been challenged by continuous exposure to toxic substances and pollutants because of uncontrolled growth, modernization, and industrialization. More than 350,000 new chemicals have been introduced to our lives, mostly without any reasonable control of their health effects and toxicity. A plethora of studies show exposure to these harmful substances during this period with their implications on the skin and mucosal epithelial barrier and increasing prevalence of allergic and autoimmune diseases in the context of the "epithelial barrier hypothesis". Exposure to these substances causes an epithelial injury with peri-epithelial inflammation, microbial dysbiosis and bacterial translocation to sub-epithelial areas, and immune response to dysbiotic bacteria. Here, we provide scientific evidence on the altered human exposome and its impact on epithelial barriers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yagiz Pat
- Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research (SIAF), University of Zurich, Davos, Switzerland
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Aydin Menderes University, Turkey
| | - Ismail Ogulur
- Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research (SIAF), University of Zurich, Davos, Switzerland
| | - Duygu Yazici
- Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research (SIAF), University of Zurich, Davos, Switzerland
| | - Yasutaka Mitamura
- Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research (SIAF), University of Zurich, Davos, Switzerland
| | - Lacin Cevhertas
- Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research (SIAF), University of Zurich, Davos, Switzerland
- Department of Medical Immunology, Institute of Health Sciences, Bursa Uludag University, Turkey
| | - Ozan C Küçükkase
- Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research (SIAF), University of Zurich, Davos, Switzerland
| | - Sanne S Mesisser
- Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research (SIAF), University of Zurich, Davos, Switzerland
| | - Mübeccel Akdis
- Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research (SIAF), University of Zurich, Davos, Switzerland
| | - Kari Nadeau
- Sean N. Parker Center for Allergy and Asthma Research, Stanford University and Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, and Critical Care Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Cezmi A Akdis
- Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research (SIAF), University of Zurich, Davos, Switzerland
- Christine Kühne-Center for Allergy Research and Education, Davos, Switzerland
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Alamyar S, Azzi E, Srour-Alphonse P, House R, Cvetkovski B, Kritikos V, Bosnic-Anticevich S. Uncovering the Burden of Rhinitis in Patients Purchasing Nonprescription Short-Acting β-Agonist (SABA) in the Community. PHARMACY 2023; 11:115. [PMID: 37489346 PMCID: PMC10366934 DOI: 10.3390/pharmacy11040115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2023] [Revised: 06/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/01/2023] [Indexed: 07/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Asthma and rhinitis are common comorbidities that amplify the burden of each disease. They are both characterized by poor symptom control, low adherence to clinical management guidelines, and high levels of patient self-management. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the prevalence of self-reported rhinitis symptoms in people with asthma purchasing Short-Acting Beta Agonist (SABA) reliever medication from a community pharmacy and compare the medication-related behavioral characteristics among those who self-report rhinitis symptoms and those who do not. Data were analyzed from 333 people with asthma who visited one of eighteen community pharmacies in New South Wales from 2017-2018 to purchase SABA and completed a self-administered questionnaire. Participants who reported rhinitis symptoms (71%), compared to those who did not, were significantly more likely to have coexisting gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), overuse SABA, and experience side effects. They may have been prescribed daily preventer medication but forget to take it, and worry about its side effects. They were also more likely to experience moderate-to-severe rhinitis (74.0%), inaccurately perceive their asthma as well-controlled (50.0% self-determined vs. 14.8% clinical-guideline defined), and unlikely to use rhinitis medications (26.2%) or daily preventer medication (26.7%). These findings enhance our understanding of this cohort and allow us to identify interventions to improve patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Alamyar
- Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
- Quality Use of Respiratory Medicine Group, Woolcock Institute of Medical Research, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Elizabeth Azzi
- Quality Use of Respiratory Medicine Group, Woolcock Institute of Medical Research, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
- GSK Australia, Pty., Ltd., Ermington, NSW 2115, Australia
| | - Pamela Srour-Alphonse
- Quality Use of Respiratory Medicine Group, Woolcock Institute of Medical Research, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Rachel House
- Quality Use of Respiratory Medicine Group, Woolcock Institute of Medical Research, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Biljana Cvetkovski
- Quality Use of Respiratory Medicine Group, Woolcock Institute of Medical Research, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Vicky Kritikos
- Quality Use of Respiratory Medicine Group, Woolcock Institute of Medical Research, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Sinthia Bosnic-Anticevich
- Quality Use of Respiratory Medicine Group, Woolcock Institute of Medical Research, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
- Sydney Pharmacy School, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
- Sydney Local Health District, Sydney, NSW 2050, Australia
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Makrufardi F, Manullang A, Rusmawatiningtyas D, Chung KF, Lin SC, Chuang HC. Extreme weather and asthma: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Eur Respir Rev 2023; 32:32/168/230019. [PMID: 37286218 DOI: 10.1183/16000617.0019-2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2023] [Indexed: 06/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Climate change's influence on extreme weather events poses a significant threat to the morbidity and mortality of asthma patients. The aim of this study was to examine associations between extreme weather events and asthma-related outcomes. METHODS A systematic literature search for relevant studies was performed using the PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science and ProQuest databases. Fixed-effects and random-effects models were applied to estimate the effects of extreme weather events on asthma-related outcomes. RESULTS We observed that extreme weather events were associated with increasing risks of general asthma outcomes with relative risks of 1.18-fold for asthma events (95% CI 1.13-1.24), 1.10-fold for asthma symptoms (95% CI 1.03-1.18) and 1.09-fold for asthma diagnoses (95% CI 1.00-1.19). Extreme weather events were associated with increased risks of acute asthma exacerbation with risk ratios of asthma emergency department visits of 1.25-fold (95% CI 1.14-1.37), of asthma hospital admissions of 1.10-fold (95% CI 1.04-1.17), of asthma outpatient visits of 1.19-fold (95% CI 1.06-1.34) and of asthma mortality of 2.10-fold (95% CI 1.35-3.27). Additionally, an increase in extreme weather events increased risk ratios of asthma events by 1.19-fold in children and 1.29-fold in females (95% CI 1.08-1.32 and 95% CI 0.98-1.69, respectively). Thunderstorms increased the risk ratio of asthma events by 1.24-fold (95% CI 1.13-1.36). CONCLUSIONS Our study showed that extreme weather events more prominently increased the risk of asthma morbidity and mortality in children and females. Climate change is a critical concern for asthma control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Firdian Makrufardi
- International PhD Program in Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Child Health, Faculty of Medicine, Public Health, and Nursing, Universitas Gadjah Mada - Dr. Sardjito Hospital, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
| | - Amja Manullang
- International PhD Program in Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Desy Rusmawatiningtyas
- Department of Child Health, Faculty of Medicine, Public Health, and Nursing, Universitas Gadjah Mada - Dr. Sardjito Hospital, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
| | - Kian Fan Chung
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Sheng-Chieh Lin
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Division of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology, Department of Pediatrics, Shuang Ho Hospital, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Hsiao-Chi Chuang
- Division of Pulmonary Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Shuang Ho Hospital, Taipei Medical University, New Taipei City, Taiwan
- School of Respiratory Therapy, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Cell Physiology and Molecular Image Research Center, Wan Fang Hospital, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
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McKenzie CI, Varese N, Aui PM, Reinwald S, Wines BD, Hogarth PM, Thien F, Hew M, Rolland JM, O'Hehir RE, van Zelm MC. RNA sequencing of single allergen-specific memory B cells after grass pollen immunotherapy: Two unique cell fates and CD29 as a biomarker for treatment effect. Allergy 2023; 78:822-835. [PMID: 36153670 PMCID: PMC10952829 DOI: 10.1111/all.15529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2022] [Revised: 08/26/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) for grass pollen allergy can modify the natural history of allergic rhinitis and is associated with increased allergen-specific IgG4 . IgG4 competitively inhibits functional IgE on the surface of effector cells, such as mast cells and basophils, from binding to allergens. To further understand the important role memory B-cell (Bmem) responses play in mediating the beneficial effects of SLIT, we assessed changes in allergen-specific Bmem subsets induced by SLIT for grass pollen allergy. METHODS Blood samples were collected twice outside the pollen season from twenty-seven patients with sensitization to ryegrass pollen (RGP; Lolium perenne) and seasonal rhinoconjunctivitis. Thirteen received 4-month pre-seasonal SLIT for grass pollen allergy, and 14 received standard pharmacotherapy only. Single-cell RNA sequencing was performed on FACS-purified Lol p 1-specific Bmem before and after SLIT from four patients, and significant genes were validated by flow cytometry on the total cohort. RESULTS Four months of SLIT increased RGP-specific IgE and IgG4 in serum and induced two Lol p 1-specific Bmem subsets with unique transcriptional profiles. Both subsets had upregulated expression of beta 1 integrin ITGB1 (CD29), whereas IGHE (IgE), IGHG4 (IgG4 ), FCER2 (CD23), and IL13RA1 were upregulated in one subset. There was an increase in the proportion of Lol p 1+ Bmem expressing surface IgG4 , CD23, and CD29 after SLIT. CONCLUSIONS A clinically successful 4 months course of SLIT for grass pollen allergy induces two transcriptionally unique Bmem fates. Associated changes in surface-expressed proteins on these Bmem subsets can be used as early biomarkers for treatment effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Craig I. McKenzie
- Department of Immunology and Pathology, Central Clinical SchoolMonash UniversityMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
| | - Nirupama Varese
- Department of Immunology and Pathology, Central Clinical SchoolMonash UniversityMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
- Department of Allergy, Immunology and Respiratory Medicine, Central Clinical SchoolMonash UniversityMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
| | - Pei Mun Aui
- Department of Immunology and Pathology, Central Clinical SchoolMonash UniversityMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
| | - Simone Reinwald
- Department of Immunology and Pathology, Central Clinical SchoolMonash UniversityMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
- Department of Allergy, Immunology and Respiratory Medicine, Central Clinical SchoolMonash UniversityMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
| | - Bruce D. Wines
- Department of Immunology and Pathology, Central Clinical SchoolMonash UniversityMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
- Immune Therapies GroupBurnet InstituteMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
- Department of PathologyThe University of MelbourneParkvilleVictoriaAustralia
| | - P. Mark Hogarth
- Department of Immunology and Pathology, Central Clinical SchoolMonash UniversityMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
- Immune Therapies GroupBurnet InstituteMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
- Department of PathologyThe University of MelbourneParkvilleVictoriaAustralia
| | - Francis Thien
- Respiratory Medicine, Eastern HealthBox Hill and Monash UniversityMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
| | - Mark Hew
- School of Public Health and Preventive MedicineMonash UniversityMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
- Allergy, Asthma and Clinical ImmunologyAlfred HealthMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
| | - Jennifer M. Rolland
- Department of Immunology and Pathology, Central Clinical SchoolMonash UniversityMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
- Department of Allergy, Immunology and Respiratory Medicine, Central Clinical SchoolMonash UniversityMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
| | - Robyn E. O'Hehir
- Department of Immunology and Pathology, Central Clinical SchoolMonash UniversityMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
- Department of Allergy, Immunology and Respiratory Medicine, Central Clinical SchoolMonash UniversityMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
- Allergy, Asthma and Clinical ImmunologyAlfred HealthMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
| | - Menno C. van Zelm
- Department of Immunology and Pathology, Central Clinical SchoolMonash UniversityMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
- Allergy, Asthma and Clinical ImmunologyAlfred HealthMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
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Price D, Hughes KM, Dona DW, Taylor PE, Morton DAV, Stevanovic S, Thien F, Choi J, Torre P, Suphioglu C. The perfect storm: temporal analysis of air during the world's most deadly epidemic thunderstorm asthma (ETSA) event in Melbourne. Ther Adv Respir Dis 2023; 17:17534666231186726. [PMID: 37646293 PMCID: PMC10469229 DOI: 10.1177/17534666231186726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2023] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There have been 26 epidemic thunderstorm asthma (ETSA) events worldwide, with Melbourne at the epicentre of ETSA with 7 recorded events, and in 2016 experienced the deadliest ETSA event ever recorded. Health services and emergency departments were overwhelmed with thousands requiring medical care for acute asthma and 10 people died. OBJECTIVES This multidisciplinary study was conducted across various health and science departments with the aim of improving our collective understanding of the mechanism behind ETSA. DESIGN This study involved time-resolved analysis of atmospheric sampling of the air for pollen and fungal spores, and intact and ruptured pollen compared with different weather parameters, pollution levels and clinical asthma presentations. METHODS Time-resolved pollen and fungal spore data collected by Deakin AirWATCH Burwood, underwent 3-h analysis, to better reflect the 'before', 'during' and 'after' ETSA time points, on the days leading up to and following the Melbourne 2016 event. Linear correlations were conducted with atmospheric pollution data provided by the Environment Protection Authority (EPA) of Victoria, weather data sourced from Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) and clinical asthma presentation data from the Victorian Agency for Health Information (VAHI) of Department of Health. RESULTS Counts of ruptured grass pollen grains increased 250% when the thunderstorm outflow reached Burwood. Increased PM10, high relative humidity, decreased temperature and low ozone concentrations observed in the storm outflow were correlated with increased levels of ruptured grass pollen. In particular, high ozone levels observed 6 h prior to this ETSA event may be a critical early indicator of impending ETSA event, since high ozone levels have been linked to increasing pollen allergen content and reducing pollen integrity, which may in turn contribute to enhanced pollen rupture. CONCLUSION The findings presented in this article highlight the importance of including ruptured pollen and time-resolved analysis to forecast ETSA events and thus save lives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dwan Price
- NeuroAllergy Research Laboratory (NARL), School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science, Engineering and Built Environment, Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, VIC, Australia
- NeuroAllergy Research Laboratory (NARL), School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science, Engineering and Built Environment, Deakin University, Burwood, VIC, Australia
- Deakin AirWATCH Pollen and Spore Counting and Forecasting Facility, Deakin University, VIC, Australia
- Victorian Department of Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Centre for Sustainable Bioproducts (CSB), School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science, Engineering and Built Environment, Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, VIC, Australia
- Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation (IMPACT), Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, VIC, Australia
| | - Kira M Hughes
- NeuroAllergy Research Laboratory (NARL), School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science, Engineering and Built Environment, Deakin University, Burwood, VIC, Australia
- Deakin AirWATCH Pollen and Spore Counting and Forecasting Facility, Deakin University, VIC, Australia
- Centre for Sustainable Bioproducts (CSB), School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science, Engineering and Built Environment, Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, VIC, Australia
- Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation (IMPACT), Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, VIC, Australia
| | - Dulashi Withanage Dona
- NeuroAllergy Research Laboratory (NARL), School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science, Engineering and Built Environment, Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, VIC, Australia
- Deakin AirWATCH Pollen and Spore Counting and Forecasting Facility, Deakin University, VIC, Australia
- Centre for Sustainable Bioproducts (CSB), School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science, Engineering and Built Environment, Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, VIC, Australia
- Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation (IMPACT), Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, VIC, Australia
| | - Philip E Taylor
- Pharmacy and Biomedical Science, School of Molecular Sciences, La Trobe University, Bendigo, VIC, Australia
| | - David A V Morton
- School of Engineering, Faculty of Science, Engineering and Built Environment, Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, VIC, Australia
| | - Svetlana Stevanovic
- School of Engineering, Faculty of Science, Engineering and Built Environment, Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, VIC, Australia
| | - Francis Thien
- Respiratory Medicine, Eastern Health, Box Hill Hospital and Monash University, Box Hill, VIC, Australia
| | - Jason Choi
- Environment Protection Authority, Centre for Applied Sciences, Macleod, VIC, Australia
| | - Paul Torre
- Environment Protection Authority, Centre for Applied Sciences, Macleod, VIC, Australia
| | - Cenk Suphioglu
- NeuroAllergy Research Laboratory (NARL), School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science, Engineering and Built Environment, Deakin University, Waurn Ponds Campus, 75 Pidgons Road, Geelong, VIC 3216, Australia
- NeuroAllergy Research Laboratory (NARL), School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science, Engineering and Built Environment, Deakin University, Burwood, VIC, Australia
- Deakin AirWATCH Pollen and Spore Counting and Forecasting Facility, Deakin University, VIC, Australi
- Centre for Sustainable Bioproducts (CSB), School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science, Engineering and Built Environment, Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, VIC, Australia
- Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation (IMPACT), Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, VIC, Australia
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9
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Climate Change Factors and the Aerobiology Effect. Immunol Allergy Clin North Am 2022; 42:771-786. [DOI: 10.1016/j.iac.2022.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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10
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Celebi Sozener Z, Özbey Yücel Ü, Altiner S, Ozdel Oztürk B, Cerci P, Türk M, Gorgülü Akin B, Akdis M, Yilmaz I, Ozdemir C, Mungan D, Akdis CA. The External Exposome and Allergies: From the Perspective of the Epithelial Barrier Hypothesis. FRONTIERS IN ALLERGY 2022; 3:887672. [PMID: 35873598 PMCID: PMC9304993 DOI: 10.3389/falgy.2022.887672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Accepted: 04/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction In the last decades, we have seen a rapid increase in the prevalence of allergic diseases such as asthma, allergic rhinitis, atopic dermatitis, and food allergies. The environmental changes caused by industrialization, urbanization and modernization, including dramatic increases in air pollutants such as particulate matter (PM), diesel exhaust, nitrogen dioxide (NO2), ozone (O3), alarming effects of global warming, change and loss of biodiversity, affect both human health and the entire ecosystem. Objective In this review, we aimed to discuss the effects of the external exposome on epithelial barriers and its relationship with the development of allergic diseases by considering the changes in all stakeholders of the outer exposome together, in the light of the recently proposed epithelial barrier hypothesis. Method To reach current, prominent, and comprehensive studies on the subject, PubMed databases were searched. We included the more resounding articles with reliable and strong results. Results Exposure to altered environmental factors such as increased pollution, microplastics, nanoparticles, tobacco smoke, food emulsifiers, detergents, and household cleaners, and climate change, loss and change in microbial biodiversity, modifications in the consumption of dietary fatty acids, the use of emulsifiers, preservatives and the decrease in the antioxidant content of the widely consumed western diet may disrupt the epithelial barriers of the skin, respiratory and gastrointestinal tracts, making us more vulnerable to exogeneous allergens and microbes. Epithelial cell activation, microbial dysbiosis and bacterial translocation disrupt the immune balance and a chronic Th2 inflammation ensues. Conclusion Dramatic increases in air pollution, worrisome effects of global warming, dysbiosis, changing dietary habits and the complex interactions of all these factors affect the epithelial barriers and local and systemic inflammation. We want to draw attention to the emerging health effects of environmental changes and to motivate the public to influence government policies for the well-being of humans and the nature of the earth and the well-being of future generations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeynep Celebi Sozener
- Clinic of Immunology and Allergic Diseases, Ankara City Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
- *Correspondence: Zeynep Celebi Sozener ; orcid.org/0000-0003-4188-0959
| | - Ümüs Özbey Yücel
- Department of Nutrition and Diet, Ankara University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Seda Altiner
- Division of Immunology and Allergic Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Ankara University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Betül Ozdel Oztürk
- Division of Immunology and Allergic Diseases, Department of Chest Diseases, School of Medicine, Ankara University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Pamir Cerci
- Clinic of Immunology and Allergic Diseases, Eskisehir City Hospital, Eskisehir, Turkey
| | - Murat Türk
- Clinic of Immunology and Allergic Diseases, Kayseri City Hospital, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Begüm Gorgülü Akin
- Clinic of Immunology and Allergic Diseases, Ankara City Hospital, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Mübeccel Akdis
- Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research (SIAF), University of Zurich, Davos, Switzerland
| | - Insu Yilmaz
- Division of Immunology and Allergic Diseases, Department of Chest Diseases, Erciyes University, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Cevdet Ozdemir
- Department of Pediatric Basic Sciences, Institute of Child Health, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey
- Division of Pediatric Allergy and Immunology, Department of Pediatrics, Istanbul Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Dilsad Mungan
- Division of Immunology and Allergic Diseases, Department of Chest Diseases, School of Medicine, Ankara University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Cezmi A. Akdis
- Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research (SIAF), University of Zurich, Davos, Switzerland
- Christine Kühne-Center for Allergy Research and Education (CK-CARE), Davos, Switzerland
- Cezmi A. Akdis ; orcid.org/0000-0001-8020-019X
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11
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Idrose NS, Lodge CJ, Erbas B, Douglass JA, Bui DS, Dharmage SC. A Review of the Respiratory Health Burden Attributable to Short-Term Exposure to Pollen. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19127541. [PMID: 35742795 PMCID: PMC9224249 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19127541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2022] [Revised: 06/15/2022] [Accepted: 06/19/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Respiratory diseases such as asthma, allergic rhinitis (AR) and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) affect millions worldwide and pose a significant global public health burden. Over the years, changes in land use and climate have increased pollen quantity, allergenicity and duration of the pollen season, thus increasing its impact on respiratory disease. Many studies have investigated the associations between short-term ambient pollen (i.e., within days or weeks of exposure) and respiratory outcomes. Here, we reviewed the current evidence on the association between short-term outdoor pollen exposure and thunderstorm asthma (TA), asthma and COPD hospital presentations, general practice (GP) consultations, self-reported respiratory symptoms, lung function changes and their potential effect modifiers. The literature suggests strong evidence of an association between ambient pollen concentrations and almost all respiratory outcomes mentioned above, especially in people with pre-existing respiratory diseases. However, the evidence on sub-clinical lung function changes, COPD, and effect modifiers other than asthma, hay fever and pollen sensitisation are still scarce and requires further exploration. Better understanding of the implications of pollen on respiratory health can aid healthcare professionals to implement appropriate management strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nur Sabrina Idrose
- Allergy and Lung Health Unit, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3053, Australia; (N.S.I.); (C.J.L.); (D.S.B.)
- Centre for Food and Allergy Research, Murdoch Children’s Research Institute, Melbourne, VIC 3052, Australia
| | - Caroline J. Lodge
- Allergy and Lung Health Unit, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3053, Australia; (N.S.I.); (C.J.L.); (D.S.B.)
| | - Bircan Erbas
- School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Bundoora, VIC 3086, Australia;
| | - Jo A. Douglass
- Department of Clinical Immunology and Allergy, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, VIC 3050, Australia;
- Department of Medicine, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3052, Australia
| | - Dinh S. Bui
- Allergy and Lung Health Unit, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3053, Australia; (N.S.I.); (C.J.L.); (D.S.B.)
| | - Shyamali C. Dharmage
- Allergy and Lung Health Unit, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3053, Australia; (N.S.I.); (C.J.L.); (D.S.B.)
- Centre for Food and Allergy Research, Murdoch Children’s Research Institute, Melbourne, VIC 3052, Australia
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +61-383-440-737
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12
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Hughes KM, Price D, Suphioglu C. Importance of allergen–environment interactions in epidemic thunderstorm asthma. Ther Adv Respir Dis 2022; 16:17534666221099733. [PMID: 35603956 PMCID: PMC9134402 DOI: 10.1177/17534666221099733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Australia is home to one of the highest rates of allergic rhinitis
worldwide. Commonly known as ‘hay fever’, this chronic condition
affects up to 30% of the population and is characterised by
sensitisation to pollen and fungal spores. Exposure to these
aeroallergens has been strongly associated with causing allergic
reactions and worsening asthma symptoms. Over the last few decades,
incidences of respiratory admissions have risen due to the increased
atmospheric concentration of airborne allergens. The fragmentation and
dispersion of these allergens is aided by environmental factors like
rainfall, temperature and interactions with atmospheric aerosols.
Extreme weather parameters, which continue to become more frequent due
to the impacts of climate change, have greatly fluctuated allergen
concentrations and led to epidemic thunderstorm asthma (ETSA) events
that have left hundreds, if not thousands, struggling to breathe.
While a link exists between airborne allergens, weather and
respiratory admissions, the underlying factors that influence these
epidemics remain unknown. It is important we understand the potential
threat these events pose on our susceptible populations and ensure our
health infrastructure is prepared for the next epidemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kira Morgan Hughes
- NeuroAllergy Research Laboratory (NARL), School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science, Engineering and Built Environment, Deakin University, Burwood, VIC, Australia
- Deakin AIRwatch Pollen and Spore Counting and Forecasting Facility, Deakin University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation (IMPACT), Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, VIC, Australia
| | - Dwan Price
- NeuroAllergy Research Laboratory (NARL), School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science, Engineering and Built Environment, Deakin University, Burwood, VIC, Australia
- NeuroAllergy Research Laboratory (NARL), School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science, Engineering and Built Environment, Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, VIC, Australia
- Deakin AIRwatch Pollen and Spore Counting and Forecasting Facility, Deakin University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation (IMPACT), Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, VIC, Australia
- COVID-19 Response, Department of Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Cenk Suphioglu
- NeuroAllergy Research Laboratory (NARL), School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science, Engineering and Built Environment, Deakin University, Burwood, VIC, Australia
- NeuroAllergy Research Laboratory (NARL), School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science, Engineering and Built Environment, Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, VIC, Australia
- Deakin AIRwatch Pollen and Spore Counting and Forecasting Facility, Deakin University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation (IMPACT), Deakin University, Waurn Ponds Campus, 75 Pidgons Road, Geelong, VIC 3216, Australia
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13
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Celebi Sozener Z, Ozdel Ozturk B, Cerci P, Turk M, Gorgulu Akin B, Akdis M, Altiner S, Ozbey U, Ogulur I, Mitamura Y, Yilmaz I, Nadeau K, Ozdemir C, Mungan D, Akdis CA. Epithelial barrier hypothesis: Effect of the external exposome on the microbiome and epithelial barriers in allergic disease. Allergy 2022; 77:1418-1449. [PMID: 35108405 PMCID: PMC9306534 DOI: 10.1111/all.15240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 119] [Impact Index Per Article: 59.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2021] [Revised: 01/25/2022] [Accepted: 01/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Environmental exposure plays a major role in the development of allergic diseases. The exposome can be classified into internal (e.g., aging, hormones, and metabolic processes), specific external (e.g., chemical pollutants or lifestyle factors), and general external (e.g., broader socioeconomic and psychological contexts) domains, all of which are interrelated. All the factors we are exposed to, from the moment of conception to death, are part of the external exposome. Several hundreds of thousands of new chemicals have been introduced in modern life without our having a full understanding of their toxic health effects and ways to mitigate these effects. Climate change, air pollution, microplastics, tobacco smoke, changes and loss of biodiversity, alterations in dietary habits, and the microbiome due to modernization, urbanization, and globalization constitute our surrounding environment and external exposome. Some of these factors disrupt the epithelial barriers of the skin and mucosal surfaces, and these disruptions have been linked in the last few decades to the increasing prevalence and severity of allergic and inflammatory diseases such as atopic dermatitis, food allergy, allergic rhinitis, chronic rhinosinusitis, eosinophilic esophagitis, and asthma. The epithelial barrier hypothesis provides a mechanistic explanation of how these factors can explain the rapid increase in allergic and autoimmune diseases. In this review, we discuss factors affecting the planet's health in the context of the 'epithelial barrier hypothesis,' including climate change, pollution, changes and loss of biodiversity, and emphasize the changes in the external exposome in the last few decades and their effects on allergic diseases. In addition, the roles of increased dietary fatty acid consumption and environmental substances (detergents, airborne pollen, ozone, microplastics, nanoparticles, and tobacco) affecting epithelial barriers are discussed. Considering the emerging data from recent studies, we suggest stringent governmental regulations, global policy adjustments, patient education, and the establishment of individualized control measures to mitigate environmental threats and decrease allergic disease.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Betul Ozdel Ozturk
- School of MedicineDepartment of Chest DiseasesDivision of Immunology and Allergic DiseasesAnkara UniversityAnkaraTurkey
| | - Pamir Cerci
- Clinic of Immunology and Allergic DiseasesEskisehir City HospitalEskisehirTurkey
| | - Murat Turk
- Clinic of Immunology and Allergic DiseasesKayseri City HospitalKayseriTurkey
| | - Begum Gorgulu Akin
- Clinic of Immunology and Allergic DiseasesAnkara City HospitalAnkaraTurkey
| | - Mubeccel Akdis
- Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research (SIAF)University of ZurichDavosSwitzerland
| | - Seda Altiner
- Clinic of Internal Medicine Division of Immunology and Allergic DiseasesKahramanmaras Necip Fazil City HospitalKahramanmarasTurkey
| | - Umus Ozbey
- Department of Nutrition and DietAnkara UniversityAnkaraTurkey
| | - Ismail Ogulur
- Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research (SIAF)University of ZurichDavosSwitzerland
| | - Yasutaka Mitamura
- Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research (SIAF)University of ZurichDavosSwitzerland
| | - Insu Yilmaz
- Department of Chest DiseasesDivision of Immunology and Allergic DiseasesErciyes UniversityKayseriTurkey
| | - Kari Nadeau
- Sean N. Parker Center for Allergy and Asthma Research at Stanford University School of MedicineDivision of Pulmonary and Critical Care MedicineDepartment of MedicineStanford UniversityStanfordCaliforniaUSA
| | - Cevdet Ozdemir
- Institute of Child HealthDepartment of Pediatric Basic SciencesIstanbul UniversityIstanbulTurkey
- Istanbul Faculty of MedicineDepartment of PediatricsDivision of Pediatric Allergy and ImmunologyIstanbul UniversityIstanbulTurkey
| | - Dilsad Mungan
- School of MedicineDepartment of Chest DiseasesDivision of Immunology and Allergic DiseasesAnkara UniversityAnkaraTurkey
| | - Cezmi A. Akdis
- Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research (SIAF)University of ZurichDavosSwitzerland
- Christine Kühne‐Center for Allergy Research and Education (CK‐CARE)DavosSwitzerland
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14
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Douglass JA, Lodge C, Chan S, Doherty A, Tan JA, Jin C, Stewart A, Southcott AM, Gillman A, Lee J, Csutoros D, Hannan L, Ruane L, Barnes S, Irving L, Harun NS, Lachapelle P, Spriggs K, Sutherland M, See K, McDonald CF, Conron M, Radhakrishna N, Worsnop C, Johnston FH, Davies JM, Bryant V, Iles L, Ranson D, Spanos P, Vicendese D, Lowe A, Newbigin EJ, Bardin P, Dharmage S. Thunderstorm asthma in seasonal allergic rhinitis: The TAISAR study. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2022; 149:1607-1616. [PMID: 34774618 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaci.2021.10.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2021] [Revised: 10/15/2021] [Accepted: 10/21/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Asthma epidemics associated with thunderstorms have had catastrophic effects on individuals and emergency services. Seasonal allergic rhinitis (SAR) is present in the vast majority of people who develop thunderstorm asthma (TA), but there is little evidence regarding risk factors for TA among the SAR population. OBJECTIVE We sought to identify risk factors for a history of TA and hospital presentation in a cohort of individuals with SAR. METHODS This multicenter study recruited adults from Melbourne, Australia, with a past diagnosis of TA and/or self-reported SAR. Clinical information, spirometry results, white blood cell count, ryegrass pollen-specific (RGP-sp) IgE concentration, and fractional exhaled nitric oxide were measured to identify risk factors for a history of TA in individuals with SAR. RESULTS From a total of 228 individuals with SAR, 35% (80 of 228) reported SAR only (the I-SAR group), 37% (84 of 228) reported TA symptoms but had not attended hospital for treatment (the O-TA group), and 28% (64 of 228) had presented to the hospital for TA (the H-TA group). All patients in the H-TA group reported a previous asthma diagnosis. Logistic regression analysis of factors associated with O-TA and H-TA indicated that lower FEV1 value and an Asthma Control Questionnaire score higher than 1.5 were associated with H-TA. Higher blood RGP-sp IgE concentration, eosinophil counts, and fractional exhaled nitric oxide level were significantly associated with both O-TA and H-TA. Receiver operating curve analysis showed an RGP-sp IgE concentration higher than 10.1 kU/L and a prebronchodilator FEV1 value of 90% or lower to be biomarkers of increased H-TA risk. CONCLUSION Clinical tests can identify risk of a history of TA in individuals with SAR and thereby inform patient-specific treatment recommendations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jo A Douglass
- Department of Medicine, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia.
| | - Caroline Lodge
- Allergy and Lung Health Unit, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
| | - Samantha Chan
- Department of Clinical Immunology and Allergy, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, Australia
| | - Alice Doherty
- Allergy and Lung Health Unit, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
| | - Ju Ann Tan
- Department of Clinical Immunology and Allergy, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, Australia
| | - Celina Jin
- Department of Clinical Immunology and Allergy, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, Australia
| | - Alastair Stewart
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
| | - Anne M Southcott
- Department of Respiratory and Sleep Medicine, Western Health, Footscray, Australia
| | - Andrew Gillman
- Department of Respiratory and Sleep Medicine, Western Health, Footscray, Australia
| | - Joy Lee
- Department of Respiratory and Sleep Medicine, Austin Health, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Danny Csutoros
- Department of Health and Human Services, State Government of Victoria, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Liam Hannan
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Northern Health, Epping, Australia
| | - Laurence Ruane
- Monash Lung, Sleep, Allergy and Immunology, Monash Hospital and University, Clayton, Australia
| | - Sara Barnes
- Department of Allergy, Monash Health, Clayton, Australia
| | - Lou Irving
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, Australia
| | - Nur-Shirin Harun
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, Australia
| | | | - Kymble Spriggs
- Department of Clinical Immunology and Allergy, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, Australia
| | - Michael Sutherland
- Department of Medicine, The University of Melbourne, Richmond, Australia
| | - Katharine See
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Northern Health, Epping, Australia
| | - Christine F McDonald
- Department of Respiratory and Sleep Medicine, Austin Health, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Matthew Conron
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, St. Vincent's Hospital, Fitzroy, Australia
| | | | - Christopher Worsnop
- Department of Respiratory and Sleep Medicine, Austin Health, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Fay H Johnston
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
| | - Janet M Davies
- Centre for Immunology and Infection Control, The University of Queensland, Herston, Australia
| | - Vanessa Bryant
- Immunology Division, Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research 1G Royal Parade, Parkville, Australia
| | - Linda Iles
- Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine, Monash University, Southbank, Australia
| | - David Ranson
- Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine, Monash University, Southbank, Australia
| | | | - Don Vicendese
- Department of Mathematics and Statistics, La Trobe University, Essendon, Australia
| | - Adrian Lowe
- Allergy and Lung Health Unit, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
| | - Edward J Newbigin
- School of BioSciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
| | - Philip Bardin
- Monash Lung, Sleep, Allergy and Immunology, Monash Hospital and University, Clayton, Australia
| | - Shyamali Dharmage
- Allergy and Lung Health Unit, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
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15
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Agache I, Sampath V, Aguilera J, Akdis CA, Akdis M, Barry M, Bouagnon A, Chinthrajah S, Collins W, Dulitzki C, Erny B, Gomez J, Goshua A, Jutel M, Kizer KW, Kline O, LaBeaud AD, Pali‐Schöll I, Perrett KP, Peters RL, Plaza MP, Prunicki M, Sack T, Salas RN, Sindher SB, Sokolow SH, Thiel C, Veidis E, Wray BD, Traidl‐Hoffmann C, Witt C, Nadeau KC. Climate change and global health: A call to more research and more action. Allergy 2022; 77:1389-1407. [PMID: 35073410 DOI: 10.1111/all.15229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2021] [Revised: 01/06/2022] [Accepted: 01/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
There is increasing understanding, globally, that climate change and increased pollution will have a profound and mostly harmful effect on human health. This review brings together international experts to describe both the direct (such as heat waves) and indirect (such as vector-borne disease incidence) health impacts of climate change. These impacts vary depending on vulnerability (i.e., existing diseases) and the international, economic, political, and environmental context. This unique review also expands on these issues to address a third category of potential longer-term impacts on global health: famine, population dislocation, and environmental justice and education. This scholarly resource explores these issues fully, linking them to global health in urban and rural settings in developed and developing countries. The review finishes with a practical discussion of action that health professionals around the world in our field can yet take.
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16
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Banasiak NC, Keil Heinonen SA, Filippelli AC. The Perfect Storm: Thunderstorm-Related Asthma. J Nurse Pract 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.nurpra.2021.06.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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17
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Ravindra K, Goyal A, Mor S. Pollen allergy: Developing multi-sectorial strategies for its prevention and control in lower and middle-income countries. Int J Hyg Environ Health 2022; 242:113951. [PMID: 35334435 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijheh.2022.113951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2021] [Revised: 02/25/2022] [Accepted: 03/06/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Pollen allergy is considered a major public health problem that causes morbidity and subsequently affects a patient's quality of life. Pollen due to their large size cannot enter the thoracic regions of the respiratory tract but can affect the nasopharyngeal mucous membrane. At the same time, the submicronic-pollen particles can act as respirable particles reaching deeper into the upper airways leading to exacerbation of asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and other allergic reactions. Based on the existing literature, expanding evidence shows that climate change and air pollutants could affect the pollen number, morphology, season, allergen content, and distribution pattern. Hence, this will influence the prevalence and occurrence of allergies linked to pollen exposure. Being a part of biogenic pollutants, pollen allergens are not expected to diminish in the foreseeable future. Therefore, it is imperative that steps need to be strengthened to improve and optimize preventive/adaptive strategies. This paper aims to review the major causes of widespread allergy, identify the major gaps, and suggest key preventive/adaptive measures to address the onset and exacerbation of pollen-related allergic diseases with a major focus on lower and middle-income countries. The study also discusses how-to implement the prevention and control measures at the individual, health care communities and organizations, Local Governments, National/International Governments levels to decrease the risk of illnesses associated with pollen allergy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khaiwal Ravindra
- Department of Community Medicine and School of Public Health, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh, 160012, India.
| | - Akshi Goyal
- Department of Environment Studies, Panjab University, Chandigarh, 160014, India
| | - Suman Mor
- Department of Environment Studies, Panjab University, Chandigarh, 160014, India.
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18
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Craig S, Powell CVE, Nixon GM, Oakley E, Hort J, Armstrong DS, Ranganathan S, Kochar A, Wilson C, George S, Phillips N, Furyk J, Lawton B, Borland ML, O'Brien S, Neutze J, Lithgow A, Mitchell C, Watkins N, Brannigan D, Wood J, Gray C, Hearps S, Ramage E, Williams A, Lew J, Jones L, Graudins A, Dalziel S, Babl FE. Treatment patterns and frequency of key outcomes in acute severe asthma in children: a Paediatric Research in Emergency Departments International Collaborative (PREDICT) multicentre cohort study. BMJ Open Respir Res 2022; 9:9/1/e001137. [PMID: 35301198 PMCID: PMC8932260 DOI: 10.1136/bmjresp-2021-001137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2021] [Accepted: 02/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
RATIONALE Severe acute paediatric asthma may require treatment escalation beyond systemic corticosteroids, inhaled bronchodilators and low-flow oxygen. Current large asthma datasets report parenteral therapy only. OBJECTIVES To identify the use and type of escalation of treatment in children presenting to hospital with acute severe asthma. METHODS Retrospective cohort study of children with an emergency department diagnosis of asthma or wheeze at 18 Australian and New Zealand hospitals. The main outcomes were use and type of escalation treatment (defined as any of intensive care unit admission, nebulised magnesium, respiratory support or parenteral bronchodilator treatment) and hospital length of stay (LOS). MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS Of 14 029 children (median age 3 (IQR 1-3) years; 62.9% male), 1020 (7.3%, 95% CI 6.9% to 7.7%) had treatment escalation. Children with treatment escalation had a longer LOS (44.2 hours, IQR 27.3-63.2 hours) than children without escalation 6.7 hours, IQR 3.5-16.3 hours; p<0.001). The most common treatment escalations were respiratory support alone (400; 2.9%, 95% CI 2.6% to 3.1%), parenteral bronchodilator treatment alone (380; 2.7%, 95% CI 2.5% to 3.0%) and both respiratory support and parenteral bronchodilator treatment (209; 1.5%, 95% CI 1.3% to 1.7%). Respiratory support was predominantly nasal high-flow therapy (99.0%). The most common intravenous medication regimens were: magnesium alone (50.4%), magnesium and aminophylline (24.6%) and magnesium and salbutamol (10.0%). CONCLUSIONS Overall, 7.3% children with acute severe asthma received some form of escalated treatment, with 4.2% receiving parenteral bronchodilators and 4.3% respiratory support. There is wide variation treatment escalation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon Craig
- Paediatric Emergency Department, Monash Medical Centre, Monash Emergency Research Collaborative, Monash Health, Clayton, Victoria, Australia .,Department of Paediatrics, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Colin V E Powell
- Division of Population Medicine, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK.,Department of Emergency Medicine, Sidra Medicine, Ad-Dawhah, Doha, Qatar
| | - Gillian M Nixon
- Department of Paediatrics, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Melbourne Children's Sleep Centre, Monash Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Ed Oakley
- Emergency Department, The Royal Children's Hospital Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,Emergency Research, Clinical Sciences, Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,Departments of Paediatrics and Critical Care, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jason Hort
- Emergency Department, Children's Hospital at Westmead, Westmead, New South Wales, Australia.,The University of Sydney Sydney Medical School, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - David S Armstrong
- Respiratory and Sleep Medicine, Monash Children's Hospital, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Sarath Ranganathan
- Respiratory Medicine, The Royal Children's Hospital Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Amit Kochar
- Emergency Department, Women's and Children's Hospital Adelaide, North Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Catherine Wilson
- Emergency Research, Clinical Sciences, Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Shane George
- School of Medicine and Dentistry, Griffith University, Southport, Queensland, Australia.,Emergency Medicine and Children's Critical Care Service, Gold Coast University Hospital, Southport, Queensland, Australia.,Child Health Research Centre, Faculty of Medicine, University of Queensland, South Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Natalie Phillips
- Child Health Research Centre, Faculty of Medicine, University of Queensland, South Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.,Emergency Department, Queensland Children's Hospital, South Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Jeremy Furyk
- Emergency Department, Townsville Hospital and Health Service, Townsville, Queensland, Australia.,Emergency Department, University Hospital Geelong, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
| | - Ben Lawton
- Emergency Department, Queensland Children's Hospital, South Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.,Emergency Department, Logan Hospital, Loganholme, Queensland, Australia
| | - Meredith L Borland
- Emergency Department, Perth Children's Hospital, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia.,Divisions of Emergency Medicine and Paediatrics, School of Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Sharon O'Brien
- Emergency Department, Perth Children's Hospital, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia.,School of Nursing, Curtin University Faculty of Health Sciences, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Jocelyn Neutze
- Kidz First Emergency Department, Middlemore Hospital, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Anna Lithgow
- Department of Paediatrics, Royal Darwin Hospital, Tiwi, Northern Territory of Australia, Australia
| | - Clare Mitchell
- Emergency Department, Royal Darwin Hospital, Tiwi, Northern Territory of Australia, Australia
| | - Nick Watkins
- Emergency Department, Royal Hobart Hospital, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Domhnall Brannigan
- Emergency Department, Royal Hobart Hospital, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Joanna Wood
- Emergency Department, Flinders Medical Centre, Bedford Park, South Australia, Australia
| | - Charmaine Gray
- Emergency Department, Flinders Medical Centre, Bedford Park, South Australia, Australia.,Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Stephen Hearps
- Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Emma Ramage
- Paediatric Emergency Department, Monash Medical Centre, Monash Emergency Research Collaborative, Monash Health, Clayton, Victoria, Australia.,Paediatric Intensive Care, Monash Children's Hospital, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Amanda Williams
- Emergency Research, Clinical Sciences, Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jamie Lew
- Emergency Department, Canberra Hospital, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
| | - Leonie Jones
- Emergency Department, Townsville Hospital and Health Service, Townsville, Queensland, Australia
| | - Andis Graudins
- Emergency Department, Dandenong Hospital, Monash Emergency Research Collaborative, Monash Health, Clayton, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Medicine, Monash University Faculty of Medicine Nursing and Health Sciences, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Stuart Dalziel
- Emergency Department, Starship Children's Health, Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand.,Departments of Surgery and Paediatrics, The University of Auckland Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Franz E Babl
- Emergency Department, The Royal Children's Hospital Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,Emergency Research, Clinical Sciences, Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,Departments of Paediatrics and Critical Care, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
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19
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Huang F, Wang DH, Foo CT, Young AC, Fok JS, Thien F. The Melbourne epidemic thunderstorm asthma event 2016: a 5-year longitudinal study. Asia Pac Allergy 2022; 12:e38. [DOI: 10.5415/apallergy.2022.12.e38] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2022] [Accepted: 10/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Felicity Huang
- Eastern Health Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - David H. Wang
- Eastern Health Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Chuan T. Foo
- Eastern Health Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Eastern Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Alan C. Young
- Eastern Health Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Eastern Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Jie Shen Fok
- Eastern Health Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Eastern Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Francis Thien
- Eastern Health Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Eastern Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
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20
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Williams S, Tsiligianni I. IPCRG is committed to lower cost, lower environmental impact and improved social impact: the triple bottom line in global primary care. NPJ Prim Care Respir Med 2021; 31:44. [PMID: 34750388 PMCID: PMC8575986 DOI: 10.1038/s41533-021-00256-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2021] [Accepted: 10/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Siân Williams
- International Primary Care Respiratory Group, London, UK.
| | - Ioanna Tsiligianni
- International Primary Care Respiratory Group, London, UK.,Department of Social Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Crete, Heraklion, Greece
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21
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New Insights into the Role of PD-1 and Its Ligands in Allergic Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222111898. [PMID: 34769327 PMCID: PMC8584538 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222111898] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2021] [Revised: 10/26/2021] [Accepted: 10/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Programmed cell death 1 (PD-1) and its ligands PD-L1 and PD-L2 are receptors that act in co-stimulatory and coinhibitory immune responses. Signaling the PD-1/PD-L1 or PD-L2 pathway is essential to regulate the inflammatory responses to infections, autoimmunity, and allergies, and it has been extensively studied in cancer. Allergic diseases include asthma, rhinoconjunctivitis, atopic dermatitis, drug allergy, and anaphylaxis. These overactive immune responses involve IgE-dependent activation and increased CD4+ T helper type 2 (Th2) lymphocytes. Recent studies have shown that PD-L1 and PD-L2 act to regulate T-cell activation and function. However, the main role of PD-1 and its ligands is to balance the immune response; however, the inflammatory process of allergic diseases is poorly understood. These immune checkpoint molecules can function as a brake or a kick-start to regulate the adaptive immune response. These findings suggest that PD-1 and its ligands may be a key factor in studying the exaggerated response in hypersensitivity reactions in allergies. This review summarizes the current understanding of the role of PD-1 and PD-L1 and PD-L2 pathway regulation in allergic diseases and how this immunomodulatory pathway is currently being targeted to develop novel therapeutic immunotherapy.
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22
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Chatelier J, Chan S, Tan JA, Stewart AG, Douglass JA. Managing Exacerbations in Thunderstorm Asthma: Current Insights. J Inflamm Res 2021; 14:4537-4550. [PMID: 34526800 PMCID: PMC8436255 DOI: 10.2147/jir.s324282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2021] [Accepted: 08/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Epidemic thunderstorm asthma (ETSA) occurs following a thunderstorm due to the interaction of environmental and immunologic factors. Whilst first reported in the 1980s, the world's largest event in Melbourne, Australia, on November 21, 2016 has led to a wealth of clinical literature seeking to identify its mechanisms, susceptibility risk factors, and management approaches. Thunderstorm asthma (TA) typically presents during an aeroallergen season in individuals sensitized to perennial rye grass pollen (RGP) in Australia, or fungus in the United Kingdom, in combination with meteorological factors such as thunderstorms and lightning activity. It is now well recognized that large pollen grains, which usually lodge in the upper airway causing seasonal allergic rhinitis (SAR), are ruptured during these events, leading to sub-pollen particles respirable to the lower respiratory tract causing acute asthma. The identified risk factors of aeroallergen sensitization, specifically to RGP in Australians with a history of SAR, and individuals born in Australia of South-East Asian descent as a risk factor for TA has been key in selecting appropriate patients for preventative management. Moreover, severity-determining risk factors for ETSA-related asthma admission or mortality, including pre-existing asthma or prior hospitalization, poor inhaled corticosteroid adherence, and outdoor location at the time of the storm are important in identifying those who may require more aggressive treatment approaches. Basic treatments include optimizing asthma control and adherence to inhaled corticosteroid therapy, treatment of SAR, and education regarding TA to increase recognition of at-risk days. Precision treatment approaches may be more beneficial in select individuals, including the use of allergen immunotherapy and even biologic treatment to mitigate asthma severity. Finally, we discuss the importance of environmental health literacy in the context of concerns surrounding the increased frequency of ETSA due to climate change and its implications for the frequency and severity of future events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josh Chatelier
- Department of Clinical Immunology and Allergy, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Medicine, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Samantha Chan
- Department of Clinical Immunology and Allergy, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Medicine, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Immunology Division, The Walter & Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Ju Ann Tan
- Department of Clinical Immunology and Allergy, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Medicine, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Alastair G Stewart
- Department of Biochemistry and Pharmacology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- ARC Centre for Personalised Therapeutics Technologies, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jo Anne Douglass
- Department of Clinical Immunology and Allergy, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Medicine, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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23
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Climate change, air pollution, and allergic respiratory diseases: a call to action for health professionals. Chin Med J (Engl) 2021; 133:1552-1560. [PMID: 32590458 PMCID: PMC7386356 DOI: 10.1097/cm9.0000000000000861] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Rising emissions of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere have warmed the planet substantially and are also accompanied by poor air quality. The increased prevalence of allergic airway disease worldwide can be partially attributed to those global environmental changes. Climate change and air pollution pose adverse impacts on respiratory allergies, and that the mechanisms are complex and interactive. Adverse weather conditions, such as extreme temperatures, can act directly on the respiratory tract to induce allergic respiratory illnesses. Thunderstorms and floods can alter the production and distribution of aeroallergens while wildfires and dust storms increase air pollution, and therefore indirectly enhance health risks. Concentrations of particulate matter and ozone in the air have been projected to increase with climate warming and air stagnation, and the rising temperatures and CO2 increase pollen, molds, and spores, which escalate the risk of allergic respiratory diseases. The synergistic effects of extreme heat and aeroallergens intensify the toxic effect of air pollutants, which in turn augment the allergenicity of aeroallergens. With the Earth's climate change, migration of humans and plants shift the living environments and allergens of susceptible people. Urban residents are exposed to multiple factors while children are sensitive to environmental exposure. Since climate change may pose many unexpected and persistent effects on allergic respiratory diseases, health professionals should advocate for effective mitigation and adaptation strategies to minimize its respiratory health effects.
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24
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Douglass JA. How can air quality affect health? Intern Med J 2021; 50:1403-1404. [PMID: 33215822 DOI: 10.1111/imj.15050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2020] [Accepted: 09/15/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Over recent years, Australians have been subject to an unprecedented number of environmental events materially and visibly affecting air quality, including thunderstorm asthma and bushfire smoke. There is increasing evidence that poor air quality adversely affects health with consequences for mortality and morbidity with measured particulates (PM2.5) in January 2019 frequently exceeding World Health Organization standards. Biological factors can also impact air quality with thunderstorm asthma epidemics evidence of a prime example, the 2016 event being associated with severe impacts on health services. Given these events, consideration needs to be given to environmental health literacy which will support individuals with pre-existing illness to recognise and mitigate as far as possible the effects of adverse air quality. Recognising the impact of poor air quality should also urge physicians to advocate for clean air as a necessity for good health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jo A Douglass
- Department of Medicine, Royal Melbourne Hospital, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, The Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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25
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Celebi Sözener Z, Cevhertas L, Nadeau K, Akdis M, Akdis CA. Environmental factors in epithelial barrier dysfunction. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2021; 145:1517-1528. [PMID: 32507229 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaci.2020.04.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 132] [Impact Index Per Article: 44.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2020] [Revised: 04/17/2020] [Accepted: 04/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The main interfaces controlling and attempting to homeostatically balance communications between the host and the environment are the epithelial barriers of the skin, gastrointestinal system, and airways. The epithelial barrier constitutes the first line of physical, chemical, and immunologic defenses and provides a protective wall against environmental factors. Following the industrial revolution in the 19th century, urbanization and socioeconomic development have led to an increase in energy consumption, and waste discharge, leading to increased exposure to air pollution and chemical hazards. Particularly after the 1960s, biological and chemical insults from the surrounding environment-the exposome-have been disrupting the physical integrity of the barrier by degrading the intercellular barrier proteins at tight and adherens junctions, triggering epithelial alarmin cytokine responses such as IL-25, IL-33, and thymic stromal lymphopoietin, and increasing the epithelial barrier permeability. A typical type 2 immune response develops in affected organs in asthma, rhinitis, chronic rhinosinusitis, eosinophilic esophagitis, food allergy, and atopic dermatitis. The aim of this article was to discuss the effects of environmental factors such as protease enzymes of allergens, detergents, tobacco, ozone, particulate matter, diesel exhaust, nanoparticles, and microplastic on the integrity of the epithelial barriers in the context of epithelial barrier hypothesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeynep Celebi Sözener
- Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research (SIAF), University of Zurich, Herman-Burchard Strasse 9, Davos, Switzerland; Department of Chest Diseases, Division of Allergy and Immunology, Ankara University School of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Lacin Cevhertas
- Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research (SIAF), University of Zurich, Herman-Burchard Strasse 9, Davos, Switzerland; Department of Medical Immunology, Institute of Health Sciences, Bursa Uludag University, Bursa, Turkey; Christine Kühne-Center for Allergy Research and Education (CK-CARE), Davos, Switzerland
| | - Kari Nadeau
- the Naddisy Foundation, Sean Parker Asthma and Allergy Center, Stanford University, Stanford, Calif
| | - Mübeccel Akdis
- Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research (SIAF), University of Zurich, Herman-Burchard Strasse 9, Davos, Switzerland
| | - Cezmi A Akdis
- Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research (SIAF), University of Zurich, Herman-Burchard Strasse 9, Davos, Switzerland; Christine Kühne-Center for Allergy Research and Education (CK-CARE), Davos, Switzerland.
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26
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D'Amato G, Annesi-Maesano I, Urrutia-Pereira M, Del Giacco S, Rosario Filho NA, Chong-Neto HJ, Solé D, Ansotegui I, Cecchi L, Sanduzzi Zamparelli A, Tedeschini E, Biagioni B, Murrieta-Aguttes M, D'Amato M. Thunderstorm allergy and asthma: state of the art. Multidiscip Respir Med 2021; 16:806. [PMID: 35003735 PMCID: PMC8672486 DOI: 10.4081/mrm.2021.806] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2021] [Accepted: 10/14/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Thunderstorm-triggered asthma (TA) can be defined as the occurrence of acute asthma attacks immediately following a thunderstorm during pollen seasons. Outbreaks have occurred across the world during pollen season with the capacity to rapidly inundate a health care service, resulting in potentially catastrophic outcomes for allergic patients. TA occurs when specific meteorological and aerobiological factors combine to affect predisposed atopic patients with IgE-mediated sentitization to pollen allergens. Thunderstorm outflows can concentrate aeroallergens, most commonly grass pollen but also other pollens such as Parietaria and moulds in TA, at ground level to release respirable allergenic particles after rupture by osmotic shock related to humidity and rainfall. Inhalation of high concentrations of these aeroallergens by sensitized individuals can induce early asthmatic responses which can be followed by a late inflammatory phase. There is evidence that, during pollen season, thunderstorms can induce allergic asthma outbreaks, sometimes also severe asthma crisis and sometimes deaths in patients suffering from pollen allergy. It has been observed that changes in the weather such as rain or humidity may induce hydratation of pollen grains during pollen seasons and sometimes also their fragmentation which generates atmospheric biological aerosols carrying allergens. Asthma attacks are induced for the high concentration at ground level of pollen grains which may release allergenic particles of respirable size after rupture by osmotic shock. In other words, it is a global health problem observed in several cities and areas of the world that can strike without sufficient warning, inducing sometimes severe clinical consequences also with deaths of asthma patients. Due to constant climate change, future TA events are likely to become more common, more disastrous and more unpredictable, as a consequence it is important to have deep knowledge on this topic to prevent asthma attacks. Other environmental factors, such as rapid changes in temperature and agricultural practices, also contribute to causing TA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gennaro D'Amato
- Division of Respiratory and Allergic Diseases, Department of Chest Diseases, High Speciality Hospital 'A. Cardarelli', Naples, Italy.,Medical School of Specialization in Respiratory Diseases, Federico II University of Naples, Italy
| | - Isabella Annesi-Maesano
- Epidemiology of Allergic and Respiratory Diseases Department, IPLESP, Paris, France.,Research Director Co- Directrice/Deputy Director IDESP, INSERM, University of Montpellier, France
| | | | - Stefano Del Giacco
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Italy
| | | | | | - Dirceu Solé
- Department of Pediatrics, Federal University of São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Ignacio Ansotegui
- Department of Allergy and Immunology, Hospital Quiron Salud Bizkaia, Bilbao, Spain
| | | | - Alessandro Sanduzzi Zamparelli
- Division of Pneumology, High Speciality Hospital 'V. Monaldi', Federico II University of Naples Medical School, Naples, Italy
| | - Emma Tedeschini
- Department of Agricultural Food and Environmental Science, University of Perugia, Italy
| | - Benedetta Biagioni
- The Allergy Outpatient Clinic-, Division of Internal Medicine, IRCCS, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria, Bologna, Italy
| | | | - Maria D'Amato
- First Division of Pneumology, High Speciality Hospital 'V. Monaldi', Federico II University of Naples Medical School, Naples, Italy
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27
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Cevhertas L, Ogulur I, Maurer DJ, Burla D, Ding M, Jansen K, Koch J, Liu C, Ma S, Mitamura Y, Peng Y, Radzikowska U, Rinaldi AO, Satitsuksanoa P, Globinska A, Veen W, Sokolowska M, Baerenfaller K, Gao Y, Agache I, Akdis M, Akdis CA. Advances and recent developments in asthma in 2020. Allergy 2020; 75:3124-3146. [PMID: 32997808 DOI: 10.1111/all.14607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2020] [Revised: 09/23/2020] [Accepted: 09/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
In this review, we discuss recent publications on asthma and review the studies that have reported on the different aspects of the prevalence, risk factors and prevention, mechanisms, diagnosis, and treatment of asthma. Many risk and protective factors and molecular mechanisms are involved in the development of asthma. Emerging concepts and challenges in implementing the exposome paradigm and its application in allergic diseases and asthma are reviewed, including genetic and epigenetic factors, microbial dysbiosis, and environmental exposure, particularly to indoor and outdoor substances. The most relevant experimental studies further advancing the understanding of molecular and immune mechanisms with potential new targets for the development of therapeutics are discussed. A reliable diagnosis of asthma, disease endotyping, and monitoring its severity are of great importance in the management of asthma. Correct evaluation and management of asthma comorbidity/multimorbidity, including interaction with asthma phenotypes and its value for the precision medicine approach and validation of predictive biomarkers, are further detailed. Novel approaches and strategies in asthma treatment linked to mechanisms and endotypes of asthma, particularly biologicals, are critically appraised. Finally, due to the recent pandemics and its impact on patient management, we discuss the challenges, relationships, and molecular mechanisms between asthma, allergies, SARS-CoV-2, and COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lacin Cevhertas
- Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research (SIAF) University of Zurich Davos Switzerland
- Christine Kühne‐Center for Allergy Research and Education (CK‐CARE) Davos Switzerland
- Department of Medical Immunology Institute of Health Sciences, Bursa Uludag University Bursa Turkey
| | - Ismail Ogulur
- Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research (SIAF) University of Zurich Davos Switzerland
- Faculty of Medicine, Division of Pediatric Allergy and Immunology Marmara University Istanbul Turkey
| | - Debbie J. Maurer
- Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research (SIAF) University of Zurich Davos Switzerland
| | - Daniel Burla
- Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research (SIAF) University of Zurich Davos Switzerland
| | - Mei Ding
- Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research (SIAF) University of Zurich Davos Switzerland
- Christine Kühne‐Center for Allergy Research and Education (CK‐CARE) Davos Switzerland
- Department of Allergology Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University Wuhan Hubei China
| | - Kirstin Jansen
- Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research (SIAF) University of Zurich Davos Switzerland
| | - Jana Koch
- Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research (SIAF) University of Zurich Davos Switzerland
- Swiss Institute for Bioinformatics (SIB) Davos Switzerland
| | - Chengyao Liu
- Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research (SIAF) University of Zurich Davos Switzerland
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery Beijing TongRen HospitalCapital Medical University Beijing China
| | - Siyuan Ma
- Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research (SIAF) University of Zurich Davos Switzerland
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery Beijing TongRen HospitalCapital Medical University Beijing China
| | - Yasutaka Mitamura
- Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research (SIAF) University of Zurich Davos Switzerland
| | - Yaqi Peng
- Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research (SIAF) University of Zurich Davos Switzerland
- Otorhinolaryngology HospitalThe First Affiliated HospitalSun Yat‐sen University Guangzhou China
| | - Urszula Radzikowska
- Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research (SIAF) University of Zurich Davos Switzerland
- Christine Kühne‐Center for Allergy Research and Education (CK‐CARE) Davos Switzerland
- Department of Regenerative Medicine and Immune Regulation Medical University of Bialystok Bialystok Poland
| | - Arturo O. Rinaldi
- Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research (SIAF) University of Zurich Davos Switzerland
| | - Pattraporn Satitsuksanoa
- Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research (SIAF) University of Zurich Davos Switzerland
- Christine Kühne‐Center for Allergy Research and Education (CK‐CARE) Davos Switzerland
| | - Anna Globinska
- Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research (SIAF) University of Zurich Davos Switzerland
| | - Willem Veen
- Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research (SIAF) University of Zurich Davos Switzerland
- Christine Kühne‐Center for Allergy Research and Education (CK‐CARE) Davos Switzerland
| | - Milena Sokolowska
- Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research (SIAF) University of Zurich Davos Switzerland
| | - Katja Baerenfaller
- Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research (SIAF) University of Zurich Davos Switzerland
- Swiss Institute for Bioinformatics (SIB) Davos Switzerland
| | - Ya‐dong Gao
- Department of Allergology Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University Wuhan Hubei China
| | - Ioana Agache
- Faculty of Medicine Transylvania University Brasov Romania
| | - Mübeccel Akdis
- Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research (SIAF) University of Zurich Davos Switzerland
| | - Cezmi A. Akdis
- Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research (SIAF) University of Zurich Davos Switzerland
- Christine Kühne‐Center for Allergy Research and Education (CK‐CARE) Davos Switzerland
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28
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Price D, Hughes KM, Thien F, Suphioglu C. Epidemic Thunderstorm Asthma: Lessons Learned from the Storm Down-Under. THE JOURNAL OF ALLERGY AND CLINICAL IMMUNOLOGY-IN PRACTICE 2020; 9:1510-1515. [PMID: 33172604 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaip.2020.10.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2020] [Revised: 10/06/2020] [Accepted: 10/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Epidemic thunderstorm asthma (ETSA) is a global health problem that can strike without sufficient warning and can have catastrophic consequences. Because of climate change, future events are likely to become more common, more disastrous, and more unpredictable. To prevent loss of life and avoid surge events on health care infrastructure, identifying at-risk individuals and their potential biomarkers is the most prophylactic approach that can be taken to mitigate the deadly consequences of ETSA. In this review, we provide an update on the clinical mechanism, global prevalence, and characteristics of those patients moderately or severely at risk of ETSA. Identifying these patient characteristics will aid clinical professionals to provide suitable and personalized treatment plans and, in turn, avoid future loss of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dwan Price
- NeuroAllergy Research Laboratory (NARL), School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science, Engineering and Built Environment, Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, VIC, Australia; NeuroAllergy Research Laboratory (NARL), School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science, Engineering and Built Environment, Deakin University, Burwood, VIC, Australia; Deakin AIRwatch Pollen and Spore Counting and Forecasting Facility, Deakin University, Burwood and Waurn Ponds, VIC, Australia
| | - Kira M Hughes
- NeuroAllergy Research Laboratory (NARL), School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science, Engineering and Built Environment, Deakin University, Burwood, VIC, Australia; Deakin AIRwatch Pollen and Spore Counting and Forecasting Facility, Deakin University, Burwood and Waurn Ponds, VIC, Australia
| | - Francis Thien
- Respiratory Medicine, Eastern Health, Box Hill Hospital and Monash University, Box Hill, VIC, Australia
| | - Cenk Suphioglu
- NeuroAllergy Research Laboratory (NARL), School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science, Engineering and Built Environment, Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, VIC, Australia; NeuroAllergy Research Laboratory (NARL), School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science, Engineering and Built Environment, Deakin University, Burwood, VIC, Australia; Deakin AIRwatch Pollen and Spore Counting and Forecasting Facility, Deakin University, Burwood and Waurn Ponds, VIC, Australia.
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29
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Thien F, Davies JM, Hew M, Douglass JA, O'Hehir RE. Thunderstorm asthma: an overview of mechanisms and management strategies. Expert Rev Clin Immunol 2020; 16:1005-1017. [PMID: 32960102 DOI: 10.1080/1744666x.2021.1826310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Epidemic thunderstorm asthma (ETSA) is due to a complex interaction of environmental and individual susceptibility factors, with outbreaks reported globally over the last four decades. Australia has been particularly susceptible with nearly half of episodes reported internationally, culminating in the catastrophic Melbourne 2016 event. AREAS COVERED Reported ETSA episodes are reviewed for common environmental and meteorological risk factors. Allergen aerobiology interaction with thunderstorm activity and rapid weather condition changes is examined. Assessment of the clinical and immunological data highlights risk factors for ETSA presentation, hospital admission, and intensive care admission. Risk factors associated with ETSA deaths are evaluated. Public health strategies, as well as pharmacological and immunological management approaches to reduce individual susceptibility and prevent ETSA are discussed. EXPERT OPINION Improved understanding of the specific meteorological factors predisposing to the greatest risk of ETSA to improve forecasting is required. Better monitoring of aeroallergen levels in areas of greatest geographic risk, with further research into allergen aerobiology underpinning mechanisms of allergen exposure is needed. The role of climate change in increasing the risk of ETSA outbreaks requires further research. Public awareness and education are required to reduce exposure, and to improve uptake of pharmacological and immunological risk reduction and preventive strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francis Thien
- Eastern Health Clinical School, Box Hill Hospital , Melbourne, Australia.,Monash University , Melbourne, Australia
| | - Janet M Davies
- Queensland University of Technology , Brisbane, Australia.,Metro North Hospital and Health Service , Brisbane, Australia
| | - Mark Hew
- Monash University , Melbourne, Australia.,Allergy, Asthma & Clinical Immunology, Alfred Health , Melbourne, Australia
| | - Jo A Douglass
- Royal Melbourne Hospital , Parkville, Australia.,Department of Medicine, University of Melbourne , Melbourne, Australia
| | - Robyn E O'Hehir
- Monash University , Melbourne, Australia.,Allergy, Asthma & Clinical Immunology, Alfred Health , Melbourne, Australia
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30
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D’Amato G, Akdis CA. Global warming, climate change, air pollution and allergies. Allergy 2020; 75:2158-2160. [PMID: 32738058 DOI: 10.1111/all.14527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2020] [Accepted: 07/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Gennaro D’Amato
- Division of Respiratory and Allergic Diseases Department of Chest Diseases High Specialty A. Cardarelli Hospital Napoli Italy
- Medical School of Specialization in Respiratory Diseases University on Naples Federico II Naples Italy
| | - Cezmi A. Akdis
- Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research (SIAF) University Zurich Davos Switzerland
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31
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D’Amato G, Chong‐Neto HJ, Monge Ortega OP, Vitale C, Ansotegui I, Rosario N, Haahtela T, Galan C, Pawankar R, Murrieta‐Aguttes M, Cecchi L, Bergmann C, Ridolo E, Ramon G, Gonzalez Diaz S, D’Amato M, Annesi‐Maesano I. The effects of climate change on respiratory allergy and asthma induced by pollen and mold allergens. Allergy 2020; 75:2219-2228. [PMID: 32589303 DOI: 10.1111/all.14476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 139] [Impact Index Per Article: 34.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2020] [Revised: 06/10/2020] [Accepted: 06/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
The impact of climate change on the environment, biosphere, and biodiversity has become more evident in the recent years. Human activities have increased atmospheric concentrations of carbon dioxide (CO2 ) and other greenhouse gases. Change in climate and the correlated global warming affects the quantity, intensity, and frequency of precipitation type as well as the frequency of extreme events such as heat waves, droughts, thunderstorms, floods, and hurricanes. Respiratory health can be particularly affected by climate change, which contributes to the development of allergic respiratory diseases and asthma. Pollen and mold allergens are able to trigger the release of pro-inflammatory and immunomodulatory mediators that accelerate the onset the IgE-mediated sensitization and of allergy. Allergy to pollen and pollen season at its beginning, in duration and intensity are altered by climate change. Studies showed that plants exhibit enhanced photosynthesis and reproductive effects and produce more pollen as a response to high atmospheric levels of carbon dioxide (CO2 ). Mold proliferation is increased by floods and rainy storms are responsible for severe asthma. Pollen and mold allergy is generally used to evaluate the interrelation between air pollution and allergic respiratory diseases, such as rhinitis and asthma. Thunderstorms during pollen seasons can cause exacerbation of respiratory allergy and asthma in patients with hay fever. A similar phenomenon is observed for molds. Measures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions can have positive health benefits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gennaro D’Amato
- Division of Respiratory and Allergic Diseases Department of Chest Diseases High Specialty A. Cardarelli Hospital Napoli Italy
- Medical School of Specialization in Respiratory Diseases University on Naples Federico II Napoli Italy
| | | | | | - Carolina Vitale
- Department of Medicine and Surgery University of Salerno Baronissi Italy
| | - Ignacio Ansotegui
- Department of Allergy and Immunology Hospital Quirónsalud Bizkaia Erandio Bilbao Spain
| | - Nelson Rosario
- Allergy and Immunology Division Federal University of Paraná Curitiba Brazil
| | - Tari Haahtela
- Department of Dermatology, Allergology and Venereology University of Helsinki Helsinki Finland
| | - Carmen Galan
- Department of Botany, Ecology and Plant Physiology University of Cordoba Cordoba Spain
| | - Ruby Pawankar
- Nippon Medical School Department of Pediatrics Tokyo Japan
| | | | - Lorenzo Cecchi
- Department of SOS Allergy and Clinical Immunology USL Toscana Centro Prato Prato Italy
| | - Christian Bergmann
- Arzt für Lungen‐ und Bronchialheilkunde Innere Medizin Allergologie Klinik für Dermatologie Venerologie und Allergologie Charité ‐ Universitätsmedizin Berlin Berlin Germany
| | - Erminia Ridolo
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine University of Parma Parma Italy
| | - German Ramon
- Instituto de Alergia e Inmunología del Sur Buenos Aires Argentina
| | - Sandra Gonzalez Diaz
- Titular Centro Regional de Alergia e Inmunología Clínica Universidad Autonoma de Nuevo Leon San Nicolás de los Garza Mexico
| | - Maria D’Amato
- First Division of Pneumology High Speciality Hospital ‘V. Monaldi’ and University ‘Federico II’ Medical School Naples Napoli Italy
| | - Isabella Annesi‐Maesano
- Research Director at the French NIH (INSERM) and Responsible of the EPAR Department IPLESP INSERM and Sorbonne University Paris France
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32
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Hew M, Lee J, Varese N, Aui PM, McKenzie CI, Wines BD, Aumann H, Rolland JM, Mark Hogarth P, Zelm MC, O’Hehir RE. Epidemic thunderstorm asthma susceptibility from sensitization to ryegrass (Lolium perenne) pollen and major allergen Lol p 5. Allergy 2020; 75:2369-2372. [PMID: 32293712 PMCID: PMC7540598 DOI: 10.1111/all.14319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2020] [Revised: 03/13/2020] [Accepted: 04/04/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Mark Hew
- Allergy, Asthma & Clinical Immunology Alfred Health Melbourne VIC Australia
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine Monash University Melbourne VIC Australia
| | - Joy Lee
- Allergy, Asthma & Clinical Immunology Alfred Health Melbourne VIC Australia
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine Monash University Melbourne VIC Australia
| | - Nirupama Varese
- Department of Allergy, Immunology and Respiratory Medicine Central Clinical School Monash University and Alfred Health Melbourne VIC Australia
- Department of Immunology and Pathology Central Clinical School Monash University Melbourne VIC Australia
| | - Pei M. Aui
- Department of Immunology and Pathology Central Clinical School Monash University Melbourne VIC Australia
| | - Craig I. McKenzie
- Department of Immunology and Pathology Central Clinical School Monash University Melbourne VIC Australia
| | - Bruce D. Wines
- Department of Immunology and Pathology Central Clinical School Monash University Melbourne VIC Australia
- Immune Therapies Group Burnet Institute Melbourne VIC Australia
- Department of Clinical Pathology University of Melbourne Parkville VIC Australia
| | - Heather Aumann
- Department of Haematology Alfred Health Melbourne VIC Australia
| | - Jennifer M. Rolland
- Department of Allergy, Immunology and Respiratory Medicine Central Clinical School Monash University and Alfred Health Melbourne VIC Australia
- Department of Immunology and Pathology Central Clinical School Monash University Melbourne VIC Australia
| | - Phillip Mark Hogarth
- Department of Immunology and Pathology Central Clinical School Monash University Melbourne VIC Australia
- Immune Therapies Group Burnet Institute Melbourne VIC Australia
- Department of Clinical Pathology University of Melbourne Parkville VIC Australia
| | - Menno C. Zelm
- Department of Allergy, Immunology and Respiratory Medicine Central Clinical School Monash University and Alfred Health Melbourne VIC Australia
- Department of Immunology and Pathology Central Clinical School Monash University Melbourne VIC Australia
| | - Robyn E. O’Hehir
- Allergy, Asthma & Clinical Immunology Alfred Health Melbourne VIC Australia
- Department of Allergy, Immunology and Respiratory Medicine Central Clinical School Monash University and Alfred Health Melbourne VIC Australia
- Department of Immunology and Pathology Central Clinical School Monash University Melbourne VIC Australia
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Eguiluz‐Gracia I, Mathioudakis AG, Bartel S, Vijverberg SJH, Fuertes E, Comberiati P, Cai YS, Tomazic PV, Diamant Z, Vestbo J, Galan C, Hoffmann B. The need for clean air: The way air pollution and climate change affect allergic rhinitis and asthma. Allergy 2020; 75:2170-2184. [PMID: 31916265 DOI: 10.1111/all.14177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 171] [Impact Index Per Article: 42.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2019] [Revised: 12/20/2019] [Accepted: 12/27/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Air pollution and climate change have a significant impact on human health and well-being and contribute to the onset and aggravation of allergic rhinitis and asthma among other chronic respiratory diseases. In Westernized countries, households have experienced a process of increasing insulation and individuals tend to spend most of their time indoors. These sequelae implicate a high exposure to indoor allergens (house dust mites, pets, molds, etc), tobacco smoke, and other pollutants, which have an impact on respiratory health. Outdoor air pollution derived from traffic and other human activities not only has a direct negative effect on human health but also enhances the allergenicity of some plants and contributes to global warming. Climate change modifies the availability and distribution of plant- and fungal-derived allergens and increases the frequency of extreme climate events. This review summarizes the effects of indoor air pollution, outdoor air pollution, and subsequent climate change on asthma and allergic rhinitis in children and adults and addresses the policy adjustments and lifestyle changes required to mitigate their deleterious effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ibon Eguiluz‐Gracia
- Allergy Unit IBIMA‐Hospital Regional Universitario de Malaga‐UMA Malaga Spain
| | - Alexander G. Mathioudakis
- Division of Infection, Immunity and Respiratory Medicine School of Biological Sciences The University of Manchester Manchester Academic Health Science Centre UK
- North West Lung Centre Wythenshawe Hospital Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust Southmoor Road Manchester UK
| | - Sabine Bartel
- Early Life Origins of Chronic Lung Disease, Research Center Borstel Leibniz Lung Center Member of the German Research Center for Lung Research (DZL) Borstel Germany
- Department of Pathology and Medical Biology University Medical Center Groningen GRIAC Research Institute University of Groningen Groningen The Netherlands
| | - Susanne J. H. Vijverberg
- Department of Respiratory Medicine Amsterdam UMC University of Amsterdam Amsterdam The Netherlands
| | - Elaine Fuertes
- National Heart and Lung Institute Imperial College London London UK
| | - Pasquale Comberiati
- Section of Paediatrics Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine University of Pisa Pisa Italy
- Department of Clinical Immunology and Allergology Sechenov University Moscow Russia
| | - Yutong Samuel Cai
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics MRC Centre for Environment and Health School of Public Health Imperial College London London UK
- The George Institute for Global Health University of Oxford Oxford UK
| | - Peter Valentin Tomazic
- Department of General ORL, Head and Neck Surgery Medical University of Graz Graz Austria
| | - Zuzana Diamant
- Department of Respiratory Medicine & Allergology Institute for Clinical Science Skane University Hospital Lund University Lund Sweden
- Department of Respiratory Medicine First Faculty of Medicine Charles University and Thomayer Hospital Prague Czech Republic
| | - Jørgen Vestbo
- Division of Infection, Immunity and Respiratory Medicine School of Biological Sciences The University of Manchester Manchester Academic Health Science Centre UK
- North West Lung Centre Wythenshawe Hospital Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust Southmoor Road Manchester UK
| | - Carmen Galan
- Department of Botany, Ecology and Plant Physiology International Campus of Excellence on Agrifood (ceiA3) University of Córdoba Córdoba Spain
| | - Barbara Hoffmann
- Institute for Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine Medical Faculty University of Düsseldorf Düsseldorf Germany
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34
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Foo CT, Fernando S, Cohen N, Adabi G, Lim CMT, Young AC, Thien F. Natural history of asthma symptoms after epidemic thunderstorm asthma: a 3-year longitudinal study. Asia Pac Allergy 2020; 10:e30. [PMID: 32789115 PMCID: PMC7402954 DOI: 10.5415/apallergy.2020.10.e30] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2020] [Accepted: 07/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The world's most catastrophic epidemic thunderstorm asthma event (ETSA) affected Melbourne in 2016. Little is known about the natural history of individuals affected by such extreme events. Objective In this single center prospective 3-year longitudinal study, symptomatology and behaviors of individuals affected by ETSA were assessed. Methods Standardized telephone questionnaire was used to evaluate frequency of asthma symptoms, inhaled corticosteroid preventer use, asthma action plan ownership, and healthcare utilization. Questionnaires were administered at 12, 24, and 36 months after 2016 ETSA. Subgroup analyses of the ‘current’, ‘past’, ‘possible,’ and ‘no asthma’ subgroups were also conducted. Results Two hundred and eight, 164, and 112 completed questionnaires were analyzed in 2017, 2018, and 2019, respectively. Seventy to eighty five percent of respondents reported ongoing asthma symptoms in any given year, of which 20%–28% experienced weekly symptoms. Nearly 50% of respondents were prescribed preventers, with approximately 45% adherent at least 5 days a week. Less than 40% had an asthma action plan and 15%–20% sought urgent medical attention for asthma over the follow-up period. Among 106 individuals with 3 consecutive years of completed questionnaires, those with no prior doctor diagnosis of asthma were significantly more likely to be asymptomatic on follow-up than those with a prior doctor diagnosis of asthma (p = 0.02). Subgroup analyses suggest that large proportions of respondents with ‘past’ and ‘no asthma’ continue to remain symptomatic throughout the 36-month period. Conclusion In individuals affected by ETSA, we found evidence of ongoing loss of asthma control in those with previously well controlled asthma, and the persistence of symptoms suggestive of asthma in those with no history or symptoms suggestive of prior asthma, even after 36 months from initial ETSA. Low rates of inhaler adherence and asthma action plan ownership may contribute to increased morbidity and mortality from future ETSA events. Further research is required to confirm these findings.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sonali Fernando
- Eastern Health Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Naomi Cohen
- Eastern Health Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | | | - Cheryl M T Lim
- Eastern Health Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Alan C Young
- Eastern Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Eastern Health Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Francis Thien
- Eastern Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Eastern Health Clinical School, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
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35
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Ščevková J, Dušička J, Tropeková M, Kováč J. Summer storms and their effects on the spectrum and quantity of airborne bioparticles in Bratislava, Central Europe. ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING AND ASSESSMENT 2020; 192:537. [PMID: 32696086 DOI: 10.1007/s10661-020-08497-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2020] [Accepted: 07/13/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
A thunderstorm is a risk factor for severe respiratory allergy or asthma attacks in patients suffering from pollen/spore allergy. This study aimed to investigate the changes in the spectrum and quantity of pollen and fungal spores in the air of Bratislava during summer storms as well as the impact of selected environmental parameters on these changes. Pollen/spore samples were collected using a Burkard volumetric aerospore trap during summer 2016. To identify those types of pollen/spores that may harm human health during the storm episodes, we analysed how the concentration of individual bioparticles in the air changed during pre-storm/storm/post-storm periods. The effect of environmental variables on the concentration of selected pollen/spore types was evaluated through Spearman's correlation analysis. The results of our study suggest that thunderstorm-related respiratory allergy symptoms in the study area may be caused by (1) spores of Myxomycetes, the airborne concentration of which increases due to an increase in wind speed during the pre-storm period; (2) ruptured pollen and Diatripaceae spores, the concentration of which increases due to increase in precipitation and relative air humidity, respectively, during the storm period; and (3) spores of Fusarium and Leptosphaeria, the concentration of which increases due to increase in precipitation and air temperature, respectively, during the post-storm period.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jana Ščevková
- Faculty of Natural Sciences, Department of Botany, Comenius University, Révová 39, 811 02, Bratislava, Slovakia.
| | - Jozef Dušička
- Faculty of Natural Sciences, Department of Botany, Comenius University, Révová 39, 811 02, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Mária Tropeková
- Faculty of Natural Sciences, Department of Botany, Comenius University, Révová 39, 811 02, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Jozef Kováč
- Faculty of Mathematics, Physics and Informatics, Department of Applied Mathematics and Statistics, Comenius University, Mlynská dolina, 842 48, Bratislava, Slovakia
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36
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW In asthma, there is an increasing focus on personalizing treatment by targeting treatable traits. Ethnicity has effects on many biological and behavioural traits, and so is an important consideration when personalizing asthma care. This review has particular relevance in light of current patterns of international migration, which are leading to unprecedented levels of ethnic heterogeneity in many geographic regions. RECENT FINDINGS This review examines the effect of ethnicity on three key domains - biological traits, behavioural traits and health system behaviour. Ethnicity influences asthma biology by affecting biomarker reference ranges, response to drug therapy and asthma phenotypes. Ethnicity impacts behavioural traits through its effects on psychosocial well being, adherence and asthma self-management. Ethnic minorities are often disadvantaged with regards to healthcare access and healthcare interactions. SUMMARY Concerted action is needed to address current issues around behavioural traits and healthcare behaviour, which are influenced by ethnicity. More research is required to understand the impact of ethnicity on asthma biology, especially the interplay between genetic and environmental influences on asthma, and the differential response to asthma therapies.
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37
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Bachert C, Humbert M, Hanania NA, Zhang N, Holgate S, Buhl R, Bröker BM. Staphylococcus aureus and its IgE-inducing enterotoxins in asthma: current knowledge. Eur Respir J 2020; 55:13993003.01592-2019. [PMID: 31980492 DOI: 10.1183/13993003.01592-2019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2019] [Accepted: 12/31/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
While immunoglobulin (Ig) E is a prominent biomarker for early-onset, its levels are often elevated in non-allergic late-onset asthma. However, the pattern of IgE expression in the latter is mostly polyclonal, with specific IgEs low or below detection level albeit with an increased total IgE. In late-onset severe asthma patients, specific IgE to Staphylococcal enterotoxins (se-IgE) can frequently be detected in serum, and has been associated with asthma, with severe asthma defined by hospitalisations, oral steroid use and decrease in lung function. Recently, se-IgE was demonstrated to even predict the development into severe asthma with exacerbations over the next decade. Staphylococcus aureus manipulates the airway mucosal immunology at various levels via its proteins, including superantigens, serine-protease-like proteins (Spls), or protein A (SpA) and possibly others. Release of IL-33 from respiratory epithelium and activation of innate lymphoid cells (ILCs) via its receptor ST2, type 2 cytokine release from those ILCs and T helper (Th) 2 cells, mast cell degranulation, massive local B-cell activation and IgE formation, and finally eosinophil attraction with consequent release of extracellular traps, adding to the epithelial damage and contributing to disease persistence via formation of Charcot-Leyden crystals are the most prominent hallmarks of the manipulation of the mucosal immunity by S. aureus In summary, S. aureus claims a prominent role in the orchestration of severe airway inflammation and in current and future disease severity. In this review, we discuss current knowledge in this field and outline the needs for future research to fully understand the impact of S. aureus and its proteins on asthma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claus Bachert
- Upper Airways Research Laboratory, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium .,Division of ENT diseases, CLINTEC, Karolinska Institute, University of Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Marc Humbert
- Service de Pneumologie, Hôpital Bicêtre, Le Kremlin Bicêtre, France
| | - Nicola A Hanania
- Section of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Nan Zhang
- Upper Airways Research Laboratory, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Stephen Holgate
- Clinical and Experimental Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, The Sir Henry Wellcome Research Laboratories, Southampton General Hospital, Southampton, UK
| | - Roland Buhl
- Pulmonary Dept, Mainz University Hospital, Mainz, Germany
| | - Barbara M Bröker
- Dept of Immunology, University Medicine Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
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Harun NS, Lachapelle P, Bowatte G, Lodge C, Braitberg G, Irving L, Hinks T, Dharmage S, Douglass J. 2016 Thunderstorm-asthma epidemic in Melbourne, Australia: An analysis of patient characteristics associated with hospitalization. CANADIAN JOURNAL OF RESPIRATORY CRITICAL CARE AND SLEEP MEDICINE 2020. [DOI: 10.1080/24745332.2020.1727301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Nur-Shirin Harun
- Department of Respiratory and Sleep Medicine, The Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Philippe Lachapelle
- Department of Respiratory and Sleep Medicine, The Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Immunology and Allergy, The Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Gayan Bowatte
- Allergy and Lung Health Unit, School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Caroline Lodge
- Allergy and Lung Health Unit, School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - George Braitberg
- Department of Emergency Medicine, The Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Louis Irving
- Department of Respiratory and Sleep Medicine, The Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
- Lung Health Research Centre, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Timothy Hinks
- Respiratory Medicine Unit, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Department for Microbiology and Immunology, The Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Shyamali Dharmage
- Allergy and Lung Health Unit, School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Jo Douglass
- Department of Immunology and Allergy, The Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
- Lung Health Research Centre, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Medicine, Royal Melbourne Hospital, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
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39
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Abstract
Background: Severe asthma can be a challenging disease to manage by the provider and by the patient, supported by evidence of increased health-care utilization by this population. Patients with severe asthma should be screened for comorbidities because these often contribute to poorly controlled asthma. The impact of comorbidities, however, are not completely understood. Objective: To review common comorbidities and their impact on severe asthma. Methods: A review of relevant clinical research studies that examined comorbidities in severe or difficult-to-treat asthma. Results: A number of comorbid diseases, including rhinitis, rhinosinusitis, gastroesophageal reflux, and obstructive sleep apnea, are associated with severe or difficult-to-treat asthma. If present and untreated, these conditions may adversely affect asthma control, quality of life, and/or lung function, despite adequate treatment with step-up asthma controller therapy. Conclusion: Treatable comorbidities are associated with severe and difficult-to-control asthma. Failure to recognize these comorbidities may divert appropriate care and increase disease burden. Assessment and management of these risk factors may contribute to improved asthma outcome; however, more investigation is needed to understand the relationship of comorbidities and asthma due to inconsistency in the findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gayatri B Patel
- Division of Allergy and Immunology, Department of Medicine, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Anju T Peters
- Division of Allergy and Immunology, Department of Medicine, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois
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40
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Foo CT, Yee EL, Young A, Denton E, Hew M, O'Hehir RE, Radhakrishna N, Matthews S, Conron M, Harun NS, Lachapelle P, Douglass JA, Irving L, Lee J, Stevenson W, McDonald CF, Langton D, Banks C, Thien F. Continued loss of asthma control following epidemic thunderstorm asthma. Asia Pac Allergy 2019; 9:e35. [PMID: 31720246 PMCID: PMC6826110 DOI: 10.5415/apallergy.2019.9.e35] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2019] [Accepted: 10/15/2019] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Epidemic thunderstorm asthma (ETSA) severely affected Melbourne, Australia in November 2016. There is scant literature on the natural history of individuals affected by ETSA. Objective A multicentre 12-month prospective observational study was conducted assessing symptomatology and behaviors of ETSA-affected individuals. Methods We used a structured phone questionnaire to assess asthma symptom frequency, inhaled preventer use, asthma action plan ownership and healthcare utilization over 12 months since the ETSA. Analysis of results included subgroup analyses of the “current,” “past,” “probable,“ and “no asthma” subgroups defined according to their original 2016 survey responses. Results Four hundred forty-two questionnaires were analyzed. Eighty percent of individuals reported ongoing asthma symptoms at follow-up, of which 28% were affected by asthma symptoms at least once a week. Risk of persistent asthma symptoms was significantly higher in those with prior asthma diagnosis, current asthma, and probable undiagnosed asthma (all p < 0.01). Of 442 respondents, 53% were prescribed inhaled preventers, of which 51% were adherent at least 5 days a week. Forty-two percent had a written asthma action plan and 16% had sought urgent medical attention for asthma in the preceding year. Conclusions Following an episode of ETSA, patients experience a pivotal change in asthma trajectory with both loss of asthma control and persistence of de novo asthma. Suboptimal rates of inhaled preventer adherence and asthma action plan ownership may contribute to asthma exacerbation risk and susceptibility to future ETSA episodes. Longer-term follow-up is needed to determine the extent and severity of this apparent change.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Alan Young
- Eastern Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Eve Denton
- Alfred Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Mark Hew
- Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Alfred Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Robyn E O'Hehir
- Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Alfred Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Jo Anne Douglass
- Melbourne Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Louis Irving
- Melbourne Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Joy Lee
- Austin Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | | | | | - David Langton
- Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Peninsula Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Ceri Banks
- Peninsula Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Francis Thien
- Eastern Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
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41
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Sokolowska M, Quesniaux VFJ, Akdis CA, Chung KF, Ryffel B, Togbe D. Acute Respiratory Barrier Disruption by Ozone Exposure in Mice. Front Immunol 2019; 10:2169. [PMID: 31608051 PMCID: PMC6758598 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.02169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2019] [Accepted: 08/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Ozone exposure causes irritation, airway hyperreactivity (AHR), inflammation of the airways, and destruction of alveoli (emphysema), the gas exchange area of the lung in human and mice. This review focuses on the acute disruption of the respiratory epithelial barrier in mice. A single high dose ozone exposure (1 ppm for 1 h) causes first a break of the bronchiolar epithelium within 2 h with leak of serum proteins in the broncho-alveolar space, disruption of epithelial tight junctions and cell death, which is followed at 6 h by ROS activation, AHR, myeloid cell recruitment, and remodeling. High ROS levels activate a novel PGAM5 phosphatase dependent cell-death pathway, called oxeiptosis. Bronchiolar cell wall damage and inflammation upon a single ozone exposure are reversible. However, chronic ozone exposure leads to progressive and irreversible loss of alveolar epithelial cells and alveoli with reduced gas exchange space known as emphysema. It is further associated with chronic inflammation and fibrosis of the lung, resembling other environmental pollutants and cigarette smoke in pathogenesis of asthma, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Here, we review recent data on the mechanisms of ozone induced injury on the different cell types and pathways with a focus on the role of the IL-1 family cytokines and the related IL-33. The relation of chronic ozone exposure induced lung disease with asthma and COPD and the fact that ozone exacerbates asthma and COPD is emphasized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milena Sokolowska
- Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research, University of Zurich, Davos, Switzerland.,Christine Kühne - Center for Allergy Research and Education (CK-CARE), Davos, Switzerland
| | - Valerie F J Quesniaux
- Laboratory of Experimental and Molecular Immunology and Neurogenetics (INEM), UMR 7355 CNRS-University of Orleans, Orléans, France
| | - Cezmi A Akdis
- Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research, University of Zurich, Davos, Switzerland.,Christine Kühne - Center for Allergy Research and Education (CK-CARE), Davos, Switzerland
| | - Kian Fan Chung
- Airways Disease, National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Bernhard Ryffel
- Laboratory of Experimental and Molecular Immunology and Neurogenetics (INEM), UMR 7355 CNRS-University of Orleans, Orléans, France
| | - Dieudonnée Togbe
- Laboratory of Experimental and Molecular Immunology and Neurogenetics (INEM), UMR 7355 CNRS-University of Orleans, Orléans, France.,ArtImmune SAS, Artinem, Orléans, France
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Exploring the Asthma Network in People with Allergic Rhinitis Utilizing an Egocentric Social Network Analysis. Pulm Ther 2019; 5:235-245. [PMID: 32026406 PMCID: PMC6967048 DOI: 10.1007/s41030-019-0095-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Asthma and allergic rhinitis (AR) are chronic respiratory diseases of a united airway. Poor AR control is a risk factor for uncontrolled asthma. We know that people with AR feel confident in making their own treatment choices with over-the-counter therapies, yet only 16% of purchases were the optimal selection. With the high level of poor asthma control and overuse of over-the-counter, short-acting beta-agonists, we must consider whether poor AR self-management behaviours are extended to asthma management in those with both diseases. This study aims to investigate asthma management from the perspective of the patient with asthma and AR and understand the influences behind their asthma management decisions. Methods This study utilized a mixed methods approach based on the theoretical and analytical framework of social network theory, including mapping of the asthma network and exploring the roles and influence of those that appear within the network. Results Twenty-two people with asthma and allergic rhinitis participated in this study. General practitioners (GPs), pharmacists and respiratory physicians were the most commonly reported influences behind participants’ asthma management decisions. Although non-healthcare professional (HCP) influences appear within the asthma network, they represented a smaller proportion. Conclusion The asthma network of people with AR is dominated by HCP influences. This network is unique and different to other previously published asthma and AR networks. Further research on the impact of AR on asthma management patient behaviour is required. Electronic Supplementary Material The online version of this article (10.1007/s41030-019-0095-9) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Harun NS, Lachapelle P, Douglass J. Thunderstorm-triggered asthma: what we know so far. J Asthma Allergy 2019; 12:101-108. [PMID: 31190900 PMCID: PMC6512777 DOI: 10.2147/jaa.s175155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2018] [Accepted: 03/14/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Thunderstorm-triggered asthma (TA) is the occurrence of acute asthma attacks immediately following a thunderstorm. Epidemics have occurred across the world during pollen season and have the capacity to rapidly inundate a health care service, resulting in potentially catastrophic outcomes for patients. TA occurs when specific meteorological and aerobiological factors combine to affect predisposed patients. Thunderstorm outflows can concentrate aeroallergens, most commonly grass pollen in TA, at ground level to release respirable allergenic particles after rupture by osmotic shock related to humidity and rainfall. Inhalation of high concentrations of these aeroallergens by sensitized individuals can induce early asthmatic responses which are followed by a late inflammatory phase. Other environmental factors such as rapid temperature change and agricultural practices contribute to the causation of TA. The most lethal TA event occurred in Melbourne, Australia, in 2016. Studies on the affected individuals found TA to be associated with allergic rhinitis, ryegrass pollen sensitization, pre-existing asthma, poor adherence to inhaled corticosteroid preventer therapy, hospital admission for asthma in the previous year and outdoor location at the time of the storm. Patients without a prior history of asthma were also affected. These factors are important in extending our understanding of the etiology of TA and associated clinical indicators as well as possible biomarkers which may aid in predicting those at risk and thus those who should be targeted in prevention campaigns. Education on the importance of recognizing asthma symptoms, adherence to asthma treatment and controlling seasonal allergic rhinitis is vital in preventing TA. Consideration of allergen immunotherapy in selected patients may also mitigate risk of future TA. Epidemic TA events are predicted to increase in frequency and severity with climate change, and identifying susceptible patients and preventing poor outcomes is a key research and public health policy priority.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nur-Shirin Harun
- Department of Respiratory and Sleep Medicine, The Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, 3050, Australia.,Lung Health Research Centre, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, 3052, Australia
| | - Philippe Lachapelle
- Department of Immunology and Allergy, The Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, 3050, Australia.,Pulmonary Division, Faculty of Medicine, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - Jo Douglass
- Lung Health Research Centre, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, 3052, Australia.,Department of Immunology and Allergy, The Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, 3050, Australia
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Sultana RV, McKenzie DP, Fahey MT, Sutherland M, Nimorakiotakis V. Beta-blocker use is an independent risk factor for thunderstorm asthma. Emerg Med Australas 2019; 31:955-960. [PMID: 30887729 DOI: 10.1111/1742-6723.13275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2018] [Revised: 02/12/2019] [Accepted: 02/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To identify risk factors for thunderstorm asthma (TA) in subjects ≥15 years of age from information available in routine clinical records. METHODS Retrospective and hospital-based case-control study of various clinical factors in all TA cases (n = 53) who presented to a single-site ED in November 2016 (TA16) and in a control group of patients (n = 156) who presented to the same ED with asthma during the pollen season over eight non-TA years. Bivariate analysis and multivariable logistic regression modelling was performed to calculate the odds of TA asthma in the presence of potential risk factors. RESULTS A logistic regression model revealed that the odds of TA were lower for age (odds ratio [OR] 0.97, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.95-0.99), higher for Asian country of birth (OR 4.09, 95% CI 1.40-11.95) and higher for oral beta-blocker use (OR 6.43, 95% CI 1.58-26.33) compared to controls. No difference was found between TA16 cases and controls for allergies (to medication, grass pollen, animal), hayfever, smoking, oral non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or aspirin. Newly diagnosed asthma was higher in TA16 cases versus controls (32.1% vs 12.2%, P = 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Oral beta-blocker medications, younger age and Asian-born heritage are risk factors for TA. Further study is required to explore the potential association between beta-blockers and TA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ron V Sultana
- Emergency Department, Epworth Richmond Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Dean P McKenzie
- Epworth HealthCare, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Statistics, Data Science and Epidemiology, Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Michael T Fahey
- Department of Statistics, Data Science and Epidemiology, Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Michael Sutherland
- Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Epworth HealthCare, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Vasilios Nimorakiotakis
- Emergency Department, Epworth Richmond Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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45
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Schweres Gewitterasthma: Das sind die Risikofaktoren. ALLERGO JOURNAL 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/s15007-019-1800-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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46
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D'Amato G, Annesi‐Maesano I, Cecchi L, D'Amato M. Latest news on relationship between thunderstorms and respiratory allergy, severe asthma, and deaths for asthma. Allergy 2019; 74:9-11. [PMID: 30242857 DOI: 10.1111/all.13616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2018] [Revised: 09/18/2018] [Accepted: 09/19/2018] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Gennaro D'Amato
- Division of Respiratory and Allergic Diseases Department of Respiratory Diseases High Specialty Hospital A. Cardarelli Napoli Italy
- School of Specialization in Respiratory Diseases University of Napoli Federico II Napoli Italy
| | - Isabella Annesi‐Maesano
- Epidemiology of Allergic and Respiratory Diseases Department IPLESP Medical School Saint‐Antoine INSERM & Sorbonne Université Paris France
| | - Lorenzo Cecchi
- Interdepartmental Center of Bioclimatology University of Florence Florence Italy
| | - Maria D'Amato
- First Division of Pneumology High Speciality Hospital “V. Monaldi” University “Federico II” Medical School Napoli Italy
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47
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Chang YS. Asia Pacific Allergy: A great platform for allergy. Asia Pac Allergy 2018; 8:e42. [PMID: 30402409 PMCID: PMC6209599 DOI: 10.5415/apallergy.2018.8.e42] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2018] [Accepted: 10/29/2018] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Yoon-Seok Chang
- Division of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seongnam 13620, Korea
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