Low level formaldehyde exposure enhances reaction to house dust mite during specific challenge

Exposure to formaldehyde at levels about 100 ug/m3 (the upper level recommended by WHO for indoor air) decreased the threshold for reactions to Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus antigen in sensitised patients, and increased the late phase reaction. The changes were statistically significant but relatively modest (about 15%), but are a good example of a combination of (supposed) irritant and allergen.

References

	Casset A, Marchand C, Purohit A, le Calve S, Uring-Lambert B, Donnay C, Meyer P, de Blay F, Inhaled formaldehyde exposure: effect on bronchial response to mite allergen in sensitized asthma patients, Allergy, 2006;61:1344-1350,

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