Allergen, Individual-Dust Dermato phagoides Farinae House Dust Mite

This IgE blood allergy test will determine if you are allergic to House Dust Mites (Dermatophagoides farinae).

Dermatophagoides farinae and D. pteronyssinus are the most abundant house dust mites. Dust mites live in bedding, couches, and dust. They survive by feeding on organic matter, such as dead skin and hair cells.

Dust mites prefer warm, humid environments, and people living in regions with this as their climate are more susceptible to acquiring dust mites. Mites can't be seen to the naked eye, and they can't bite, but they can cause allergic reactions.

The House Dust Mite lays eggs over a 30-day period, producing about one egg a day. The major house dust mite allergens are the most potent of indoor allergens, and dust mites can cause allergic reactions in pets as well as humans.

Individuals who experience allergic reactions to D. farinae mites tend to also experience allergies to other mites in the Pyroglyphidae family.

When an individual with a house dust mites allergy becomes exposed to them, their immune system recognizes the substances as foreign. As a result, it stimulates the plasma cells to produce specific antibodies that combat the invaders. These antibodies cause a chemical known as histamine to be released, triggering an allergic reaction. The allergic reaction may occur within minutes or a few hours after initial exposure to house dust mites and may vary from mild to severe depending on the individual.

Written by: Supriya Kulkarni, Lead-Content & Training

Reviewed by : Dr. Alap Christry M.D. AVP-Lab Operations & Scientific Business Head-Clinical Chemistry