Animal allergen -dander and feather-

Abstract

An increasing prevalence of pet allergy has emerged along with a growing number of indoor pets including dogs and cats. In addition to pets, laboratory animals such as mice and hamsters cause allergy. Major allergens of most fur animals, except cats, belong to the lipocalin protein family and show cross-reactivity. Animal allergens, which are mostly secreted in urine and saliva, adhere to hairs and dander, spread into indoor. They are carried to many places by adhering to clothes. In addition, they can float for hours in the indoor air. Sensitization of these allergens is through the respiratory tract, which often results in bronchial asthma and allergic rhinitis. Notably, the bite of experimental animals such as mice, rats, and hamsters, often causes anaphylaxis. Although allergens in bird feathers have not yet been identified, inhalation of bird allergens can cause hypersensitivity pneumonitis. The both allergen components, Can f 1 of the dog and Fel d 1 of the cat, have been shown to aid in diagnosis of allergy to respective animals. Avoidance of allergens is the current best and only treatment for animal allergy, which however is difficult to practice. The development of therapies such as immunotherapy is awaited.