The Role of Fungi as Aeroallergens in Asthma and Allergies

Abstract

Allergies and asthma are worldwide diseases causing various health problems. Their symptoms include episodic wheeziness, breathlessness, dry cough, etc. Sensitivity to a variety of fungi is known to be a major factor in the occurrence of allergic rhinitis and asthma. Fungal spores act as a potent indoor as well as outdoor allergens. The quantity and diversity of the fungi vary from location to location depending upon the environmental factors. Apart from fungal allergens, a range of other variables also contribute in the prevalence of allergic rhinitis and bronchial asthma, including proportion of native community and chemical irritants from air. This article sheds light on the correlation of various airborne fungal spores to asthma and associated allergies.