Aeroallergen Sensitivity Profile in Children in Hatay Province: A Single-Center Cross-Sectional Study

Objective: Aeroallergen sensitization patterns vary considerably across geographical regions due to differences in climate, humidity, and vegetation. This study aimed to determine the spectrum and frequency of aeroallergen sensitization among children with allergic complaints in Hatay province, southern Türkiye, and evaluate the associations between sensitization profiles and demographic characteristics, clinical diagnoses, and seasonal distribution.Material and Methods: This retrospective cross-sectional study included 455 children aged 2–18 years who underwent skin prick testing for aeroallergen sensitization at a tertiary care center between December 2023 and August 2024. Demographic data, clinical diagnoses, laboratory parameters, and sensitization patterns were extracted from medical records. Sensitization was defined as a wheal diameter of at least 3 mm greater than the negative control.Results: Skin prick test (SPT) positivity was detected in 231 (50.8%) patients, with 24.6% monosensitized and 26.2% polysensitized. The median age was 80 months, and 58.2% were male. House dust mites were the most prevalent allergen (36.5%), followed by grass pollen (17.4%), molds (15.6%), and cereal pollen (12.1%). SPT positivity increased significantly with age (p = 0.007) and was highest in summer (59.2%, p = 0.018). Patients with allergic rhinitis exhibited higher rates of pollen sensitization compared to those with asthma alone (p<0.05). No gender differences were observed. SPT-positive patients had significantly higher eosinophil counts and total IgE levels (p<0.001).Conclusion: House dust mite sensitization predominates among atopic children in Hatay, reflecting the region's humid Mediterranean climate. The age-dependent increase in sensitization and the distinct association between pollen sensitivity and allergic rhinitis highlight the importance of region-specific diagnostic and management strategies.