Airborne Cupressaceae Pollen and Its Major Allergen, Cup a 1, in Urban Green Areas of Southern Iberian Peninsula

Cupressaceae pollen is responsible for winter respiratory allergies in the Mediterranean area. Pollen grains of this diverse family share same characteristics under light microscopy. Consequently, partial contribution each species to airborne spectrum cannot be determined with conventional aerobiological methods. Studies on major aeroallergens offer better information allergic sensitization and appearance symptoms patients sensitized spores. Our aim was determine if concentrations correspond aerodynamics allergen Cupressus (Cup a 1), as well aeroallergen correlation different-sized particles. The air sampled two cities Southern Spain (Granada Córdoba) using Hirst-type volumetric sampler detection during 2006 2008 Andersen Cascade Impactor main pollination period period. samples were analyzed by methodology proposed Spanish Aerobiology Network (REA), minimum requirements European Aeroallergen Society (EAS) pollen, ELISA immunoassay detect Cup 1. distribution patterns 1 observed throughout sampling period, although some irregular oscillations. showed positive significant maximum (January March). However, results study that exposure depends their abundance cities. According allergy potential obtained, like C. arizonica could release more allergens than other sempervirens.