Allergen sensitization associates with worse lung function parameters

Abstract

Objective. To assess the association between the number of allergen sensitizations and lung function variables in individuals with airway symptoms. Methods. Retrospective study with all individuals who performed lung function and skin-prick tests at CUF-Porto (01/2011-06/2016). Six allergen groups were consid-ered. % predicted pre-bronchodilator test (BD) and % change after BD were an-alysed for spirometry and plethysmography parameters. Results. A total of 1293 individuals were included, 54% (n = 698) adults and 69% (n = 891) with sensitization to ≥ 1 allergen group. %FEV1 was significantly higher and % change in FEV1 significantly lower in non-sensitized individuals. %sRaw was higher in polysensitized (vs non-sensitized). Conclusions. The presence of allergen sensitizations was significantly associated with worse key lung function parameters.