The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology
Volume 107, Issue 3, Supplement , Pages S422-S429, March 2001

Ecology and elimination of cockroaches and allergens in the home☆

Baltimore, Md, and São Paulo, Brazil

From athe Department of Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore; and bDepartmento de Parasiologia, Microbiologia y Immunologia, Faculdade de Medicina De Ribeirao Preto, São Paulo, Brazil

Abstract 

Cockroach infestations have been indicated as a major contributor to asthma throughout the world. Several studies have shown that large numbers of asthmatic patients are sensitized to cockroach allergens. Eliminating this pest from homes, schools, and public buildings involves a long-term commitment to a rational extermination process. This article covers the characteristics of the major cockroach species that invade homes, assesses the role of environmental exposure to cockroaches in asthma, and provides an intervention program for their extermination. (J Allergy Clin Immunol 2001;107:S422-9.)

Keywords:  Cockroach, cockroach allergen, environmental exposure, asthma, intervention, integrated pest management

Abbreviations:  ED: , Emergency department, GST: , Glutathione-S-transferase

 

☆ Reprint requests: Peyton A. Eggleston, MD, Professor of Pediatrics, CMSC 1102, Johns Hopkins Hospital, 600 N Wolfe St, Baltimore, MD 21287.

PII: S0091-6749(01)70185-6

The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology
Volume 107, Issue 3, Supplement , Pages S422-S429, March 2001

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