Occupational allergy to horse allergens: More than exposure to horses!

The researchers are concerned with the findings of a previous study claiming that exposure to horses increases the risk of developing allergic reactions. They argue that the previous study did not consider other factors like interactions with cats and dogs and exposure to lipocalins, proteins known to cause allergic reactions. In addition, they suggest that sensitivity to other furry animals can be a significant indicator of potential allergic reactions to horses.

Exposure to Common Pets

• The researchers challenge the previous study’s conclusions by arguing that it did not consider the potential impact of contact with other common pets such as cats and dogs.
• They believe that the exposure and allergy levels to cats and dogs could greatly influence allergic reactions to horses, given the wide prevalence of cat and dog allergies.
• In their geographical context (Naples, Italy), the researchers found that only 50% of patients with allergies to common pets (cats/dogs) had direct exposure to these animals.

The Role of Lipocalins

• Lipocalins are a major group of allergenic proteins found in mammals, including pets like dogs, horses, and cats. These proteins are known to trigger allergic reactions. The researchers argue that cross-reacting lipocalins may cause allergic reactions to horses, not merely exposure to horses.
• Some lipocalins exhibit significant homologies and IgE cross-reactivity, meaning they can cause similar allergic reactions due to their similar structures.

Allergic Sensitization to Other Furry Animals

• The researchers also explore the levels of allergic sensitization to other furry animals such as rabbits, hamsters, rats, cows, guinea pigs, and mice.
• In their study, they found that only between 0% to 33.3% of people identified a direct exposure to such animals, while 66.7% to 100% of patients showed allergic reactions without direct contact.
• This suggests other factors, like indirect exposure or cross-reacting allergens, play a key role in allergic responses.

Multiple Sensitizations

• Finally, as suggested by their skin prick test results, exposure and sensitization to common household pets seem to have a substantial influence on the development of sensitizations to other furry animals, including horses.
• So, people who are allergic to cats or dogs might have a 14-fold increase in risk for developing allergies to other furry animals.