Preventive effect of bedding encasement with microfine fibers on mite sensitization

Der p 1 + Der f 1 concentrations were expressed as μg/gm dust in mattresses of atopic infants. Average level of Der p 1 + Der f 1 obtained at end of this study was significantly lower than at beginning of this study in group B (Allerguard encasings, n = 27), but not in group A (regular encasings, n = 30).

Levels of IgE antibodies against Df between two groups at end of study. Lower dashed line represents negative level (0.35 U/ml). Upper dashed line represents positive level (0.70 U/ml). Horizontal bars indicate geometric means. When geometric mean was calculated, a value of 0.34 U/ml was used instead of a value of less than 0.35 U/ml.

At end of study, sensitization to HDMs was evaluated by skin testing, measurement of serum IgE antibodies, or both. Positive reactions were observed in 26 (18 + 8) infants (left) but not in 31 (12 + 19) infants (right). Group A (filled circles) indicates family who used regular encasing, and group B (open circles) indicates family who used Allerguard encasing. Der p 1 + Der f 1 concentrations were expressed as μg/gm dust.