Aerobiology of Cupressaceae pollen in Portugal

Abstract

Introduction: Cupressaceae pollen type is considered a cause of pollen allergy in winter, throughout the world, mainly in the Mediterranean countries. Objective: To analyze the prevalence and aerobiological behavior of Cupressaceae pollen (Cupressaceae pollen type) in Portugal. Material and methods: This study used Cupressaceae pollen data of the Portuguese Aerobiology Network (RPA-SPAIC) and meteorological data, from 2002 to 2017, of 9 monitoring centers (mainland and islands). The influence of meteorological factors on Cupressaceae airborne pollen concentrations was analyzed by Spearman’s correlation. Results: Cupressaceae pollen type is one of the most abundant pollen types in the atmosphere of Portuguese cities with a representation in the pollen spectrum ranging from 5% (Portimão) to 24% (Coimbra and Vila Real). This pollen type was recorded during all year but, in average terms, Cupressaceae pollen season was of medium duration: in general began in December/ January and ended in March/April, depending on the region and the year. The highest pollen levels were observed in Vila Real, Évora and Coimbra. It was observed a clear influence of the meteorological variables on the Cupressaceae pollen counts, in particular of the temperature followed by global radiation and sunshine. Conclusion: Given the predominance of this pollen in the air over a long period of time and its allergenic potential, the dissemination of the information from this study is useful and relevant in order to correlate with possible sensitization and symptomatology of pollinosis. It should be noted that in Portugal, the highest levels of airborne Cupressacea pollen occur in winter and early spring and that allergy to this pollen type will certainly be more frequent during this period.