CLINICAL OBSERVATIONS ON JAPANESE CEDAR POLLINOSIS

Abstract

The existence of pollinosis in Japan has been often presumed from various points of view, but very few reports on pollinosis whose allergen is known are found so far. In 1963, in the district of Nikko and its neighbourhood, the authors hap- pened to meet 21 cases with allergic symptoms in nasal cavity, pharynx and conjunctiva, which often appear only in spring season.
Based on various examinations, the authors confirm that these cases are pollinosis sensitized with Japanese cedar (Cryptameria japonica D. Don.) pollen. And this disease is named "Japanese Cedar Pollinosis"
Cryptomeria japonica is a staple forest-tree and is found only in Japan. Its pollination in the vicinity of Nikko and Tokyo is seen from March to April.
From 1963 to 1965, the total of numbers of patients reached 28 cases. The number of the patients increases most at the beginning of April, around when, the number of Japanese cedar pollens dispersed in the air increases most.
The results investigated into allergens in these cases are as follows ; Prick test with Japanese cedar pollen showed positive results in 78.6% of the total of 28 cases. Positive intradermal reac- tions to the extract of Japanese cedar pollen (Torii Co. Ltd.) were observed in 89.3% of the total of 28 cases. Positive conjunctival and nasal reactions to Japanese cedar pollen were observed in 89.3% and 100% of the total of 28 cases respectively.
In s cases Prausnitz-Kustner test were carried out and they showed positive results.
In the stage of attacks, all cases showed eosi- nophilia in nasal mucus. The nasal mucosa sho- wed swelled ciliated epithelium and abundant goblet cells. There is subepithelial oedema and eosinophi infiltration.