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Dermatophagoides (house dust mite)
Classification presumptive. Dust mites are an important respiratory allergen.
Epidemiology:
1) require high humidity
2) found in all human habitations
3) most significant habititat is bedding & fabric-upholstered furniture
4) feed on mold & epidermal scale shed by humans
Laboratory:
- Dermatophagoides IgE in serum
Management:
1) environmental control
a) removal of rugs to reduce mite density
b) frequent vacuuming
c) discontinue use of humidifier
d) wash bedding in hot water
2) immunotherapy with mite extracts
Specific
Dermatophagoides farinae
Dermatophagoides microceras
Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus
General
acarus (mites, ticks)
Properties
KINGDOM: animal
PHYLUM: arthropod
ORGANISM-CLASS: arachnid
References
- Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine, 14th ed.
Fauci et al (eds), McGraw-Hill Inc. NY, 1998, pg 2549
- Mayo Internal Medicine Board Review, 1998-99, Prakash UBS (ed)
Lippincott-Raven, Philadelphia, 1998, pg 23