Aeroallergen Sensitization in Adults with Allergic Rhinitis: A Single Center Experience in a Tertiary Hospital

Background and Objectives: Aeroallergen sensitization patterns vary by region, influenced by environmental factors such as climate and vegetation. This study aimed to determine the sensitization profile and identify the most common aeroallergens in adult patients presenting with a preliminary diagnosis of allergic rhinitis (AR) at a tertiary care center in Southeastern Türkiye. Methods: Adult patients (≥18 years) who presented to our immunology-allergy clinic with suspected AR and underwent skin prick testing (SPT) for inhalant allergens between February 2024-February 2025 were retrospectively analyzed. Demographic and clinical data—including total IgE levels, eosinophil counts, and SPT results—were retrieved from medical records. Results: A total of 658 patients were included; median age was 31 years, and 65% were female. A family history of atopy was present in 28.3%, and 36.8% had at least one allergic comorbidity, most commonly asthma (26%). Based on symptom severity, 51.3% had mild AR and 48.7% had moderate-to-severe AR. Sensitization to inhalant allergens was identified in 77.4% of patients. The most common aeroallergens were grass pollen mix (40.3%), Dermatophagoides farinae (37.7%), Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus (33.3%), meadow-grass pollen mix (27.8%), and cockroach (24.2%). Sensitization to grass pollen mix, weed pollen mix, olive tree pollens, and cockroach was significantly associated with moderate-to-severe AR. Asthma was more prevalent in this group and was strongly linked to sensitization to house dust mites, and dog epithelium (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Sensitization to pollens and indoor allergens is associated with increased AR severity and asthma. Identifying regional sensitization profiles may support more accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment strategies.