Pollinosis: expansion of the sensitization spectrum due to invasive plant species

Objective . To conduct comparative evaluation of the allergenic activity of a proprietary extract and a commercial birch pollen allergen, and to characterize sensitization to pollen of Canadian goldenrod, ash-leaved maple, mountain pine and Scots pine, Norway spruce, and common juniper in patients with pollinosis. Materials and methods . A study of 91 blood serum of patients with pollinosis (50 men – 55% and 41 women – 45%), average age 31 years old, was conducted. The study included the determination of specific immunoglobulins E by the immunoblotting method. Results . Specific IgE antibodies to the extract of Canadian goldenrod ( Solidago canadensis ) were detected in 12 patients (13.3%), specific IgE antibodies to the extract of silver birch ( Betula pendula ) were detected in 55 patients (60%), and specific IgE antibodies to the extracts of scots pine ( Pinus sylvestris ) and ash-leaved maple ( Acer negundo ) were detected in 1 patient (1%). Conclusion . The spectrum of sensitization is expanded by invasive species (Canadian goldenrod, Ash-leaved maple), as well as some rare species in terms of their ability to cause pollinosis (Scots pine).