Aerobiological study of Chenopodiaceae and Amaranthaceae in the Mediterranean area of southwestern Spain.

The study area is characterized by a maritime Mediterranean climate, abundant presence of Chenopodiaceae in the vegetation, and a high incidence of pollinosis caused by the pollen of this family. A Hirst-type sampler was used to determine pollen concentrations in the air of the city of Huelva during 3 consecutive years (1995-1997). The total annual amount of Chenopodiaceae-Amaranthaceae pollen was between 10.59% and 6.28% of the pollen spectrum of the city, depending on the year. The annual pattern of variation in pollen concentration (5-day means) was very similar in the 3 years, and no statistically significant differences were found between years. This pattern is characterized by concentrations not exceeding 20 grains/m3 between April and the beginning of August, with an obvious seasonal variation in the second half of August and September, when the 5-day mean concentrations exceeded 40 grains/m3 and the daily maxima exceeded 100 grains/m3. This coincided with the flowering of most of the species in the group. The meteorological parameters with a statistically significant effect on daily pollen concentration during the pollen season (August 15 to September 20) included mean temperature and south wind (positive correlations) and relative humidity of the air (negative correlation). The highest intradiurnal concentrations were found between 10:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.     

First annual register of allergenic pollen in Talca,Chile

BackgroundThere are no data on atmospheric pollen in Talca. In the present work, our aim is to describe the amount of pollen grain in the atmosphere of the city of Talca likely to cause pollinosis of its inhabitants.MethodsA volumetric Hirst sampler (Burkard seven-day recording device) was used to study pollen levels. It was placed in the centre of Talca from May 2007 to April 2008.ResultsThe highest airborne presence of pollen, as measured in weekly averages, was Platanus acerifolia with a maximum weekly daily average of 203 grains/m³ registered during September and October. The second highest was Acer pseudoplatanus with a maximum weekly daily average of 116 grains/m³. Populus spp. had a maximum weekly daily average 103 grains/m³. Olea europaea reached 19 grains/m³ in November. Grasses presented high levels of pollen counts with a maximum weekly daily average of 27 grains/m³ from the end of August until the end of January. Pollens of Plantago spp. Rumex acetosella and Chenopodium spp. had a similar distribution and were present from October to April with maximum weekly daily average of 7 grains/m³, 7 grains/m³ and 3 grains/m³ respectively. Significant concentrations of Ambrosia artemisiifolia were detected from February until April.ConclusionThe population of Talca was exposed to high concentrations of allergenic pollen, such as P. acerifolia, A. pseudoplatanus, and grasses in the months of August through November. The detection of O. europaea and A. artemisiifolia is important as these are emergent pollens in the city of Talca. Aerobiological monitoring will provide the community with reliable information about the level of allergenic pollens, improving treatment and quality of life of patients with respiratory allergy.     

Correlation between pollen counts and symptoms in two different areas of the Iberian Peninsula: Cordoba (Spain) and Evora (Portugal).

This work was designed to analyse the symptoms of pollen allergy in two different cities of the Iberian Peninsula, Cordoba and Evora. Fifteen patients with pollinosis in Cordoba and twenty-seven in Evora were included in this study. Rhinitis symptoms scores were recorded in both cities in order to correlate these data with those of pollen counts. Linear regression analyses were performed in order to find out the contribution of different taxa to the sign of allergy symptoms in the allergenic population. Skin prick tests were also considered. A high and significant correlation was found for Poaceae (0.89), Olea (0.73) and Plantago (0.56) in Cordoba and Olea (0.53) in Evora. Results also suggest that the incidence of the different pollen types in allergy patients is higher in Cordoba than in Evora. A rural lifestyle in Evora that confers a better protection from environmental agents in addition to a less contaminated atmosphere could be the cause.     

Serosurvey study of Toscana virus in domestic animals, Granada, Spain

Toscana virus (TOSV) is transmitted by infected sandflies. In Mediterranean countries, TOSV is one of the major viral pathogens involved in aseptic meningitis and meningoencephalitis in humans. It remains unclear if there are animal reservoirs able to maintain the virus through the cold months of the year, when the vector is not circulating. From May to October of 2006 and 2007, we conducted a serosurvey study on domestic animals from Granada province (southern Spain). TOSV was investigated in 1186 serum samples from horses, goats, pigs, cats, dogs, sheep, and cows by serology (indirect fluorescence assay), viral culture, and RT-polymerase chain reaction. Specific anti-TOSV antibodies were detected in 429 (36.2%) serum samples. The highest seropositivity rates were observed in cats (59.6%) and dogs (48.3%). These results suggest that an important percentage of the domestic animals have been infected by TOSV. Significantly different seroprevalence rates were detected in goats among distinct geographical areas. All viral cultures were negative. TOSV was detected by RT-polymerase chain reaction in only one serum sample from a goat. Thus, the studied animals do not seem to act as reservoirs for TOSV; otherwise, they could be amplifying hosts for the virus.     

Aerobiological investigation and in vitro studies of pollen grains from 2 dominant avenue trees in Kolkata, India.

BACKGROUND: Peltophorum pterocarpum and Delonix regia are dominant avenue trees in the city of Kolkata in India. They are well adapted to the humid tropical climate and also grow commonly in different parts of the country. Their pollen grains are reported to be airborne. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to conduct an aerobiological survey in Kolkata to determine the concentration and seasonal periodicity of pollen grains from P pterocarpum and D regia and to analyze the meteorological factors responsible for their levels in the atmosphere. In addition, we analyzed the prevalence of sensitization due to these grains among patients with seasonal respiratory allergy. METHODS: An aerobiological survey was conducted with a volumetric Burkard sampler from 2004 to 2006. Correlations between meteorological parameters and pollen grain concentrations were assessed by Spearman correlation test. The protein profile of the pollen extracts was studied by sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. Finally, the allergenic potential of the pollen extracts was evaluated in patients with respiratory allergy by skin prick test, immunoglobulin (Ig) E enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and IgE immunoblotting. RESULTS: P pterocarpum and D regia pollen grains occur from March to June and April to July, respectively. The pollen concentrations showed statistically significant positive correlations with maximum temperature and wind speed. Positive reactions to P pterocarpum and D regia were observed in 26% and 22% of the patients, respectively. Many protein bands were detected in the pollen extracts over a wide molecular weight range. A total of 5 (P pterocarpum pollen) and 8 (D regia pollen) protein fractions were detected by IgE immunoblotting. CONCLUSION: P pterocarpum and D regia pollen grains are dominant in the atmosphere of south Kolkata and they are influenced by temperature. The pollen grains release proteins that may be responsible for immediate hypersensitivity reactions in sensitive patients.     

Short report: Human infection with Trichinella britovi in Granada,Spain

An outbreak of trichinellosis caused by ingestion of pork infected with Trichinella britovi occurred in the province of Granada in southern Spain in April-May 2000. Thirty-eight people were affected and 15 of them were hospitalized at the University Hospital of San Cecilio (Granada). The probable source of infection was sausage made from uninspected wild boar meat and inspected pork. Ninety-two percent of the patients had myalgias, 47.6% had diarrhea and/or vomited, 78.6% had periorbital edema, and 76.0% had fever. Twenty-two patients (15 hospitalized and 7 nonhospitalized) were serologically studied. Eosinophil levels were less than 5% of the total leukocyte count in 86.7% of the patients. Levels of creatinine phosphokinase (range = 200-2,213 U/L) and lactate dehydrogenase (range = 560-7,558 U/L) were elevated in 85.7% and 78.6% of the patients, respectively. Sixteen (72.7%) and 20 (90.9%) patients were positive for T. britovi by indirect immunofluorescence and Western blot, respectively.     

Sensitization to Castanea sativa pollen and pollinosis in northern Extremadura (Spain)

BackgroundCastanea sativa pollen allergy has generally been considered to be uncommon and clinically insignificant. In our geographical area (Plasencia, Cáceres, Spain) Castanea sativa pollen is a major pollen.ObjectiveTo determine the atmospheric fluctuations and prevalence of patients sensitized to Castanea pollen in our region and to compare this sensitization with sensitizations to other pollens.MethodsPatients with respiratory symptoms attending our outpatient clinic for the first time in 2003 were studied. The patients underwent skin prick tests with commercial extracts of a battery of inhalants including Castanea sativa pollen. Serologic specific IgE to Castanea sativa pollen was determined using the CAP system (Pharmacia &; Upjohn, Uppsala, Sweden). Airborne pollen counts in our city were obtained using Cour collection apparatus over a 4-year period (2000 to 2003).ResultsThe most predominant pollens detected were (mean of the maximal weekly concentrations over 4 years in pollen grains/m³): Quercus 968, Poacea 660, Olea 325, Platanus 229, Pinus 126, Cupresaceae 117, Plantago 109, Alnus 41, Populus 40, Castanea 32. We studied 346 patients (mean age: 24.1 years). In 210 patients with a diagnosis of pollinosis, the percentages of sensitization were: Dactylis glomerata 80.4%, Olea europea 71.9%, Fraxinus excelsior 68%, Plantago lanceolata 62.8%, Chenopodium album 60.9%, Robinia pseudoacacia 49 %, Artemisia vulgaris 43.8 %, Platanus acerifolia 36.6%, Parietaria judaica 36.1 %, Populus nigra 32.3%, Betula alba 27.6%, Quercus ilex 21.4%, Alnus glutinosa 20.9%, Cupressus arizonica 7.6% and Castanea sativa 7.1 %. Fifteen patients were sensitized to Castanea sativa and 14 had seasonal rhinoconjunctivitis and asthma. Ten patients had serum specific IgE to Castanea pollen (maximum value: 17.4 Ku/l). Castanea pollen is present in our area in large amounts from the 23rd to the 28th weeks of the year, with a peak pollen count in the 25th week.ConclusionsThe most important allergenic pollens in northern Extremadura were Poaceae, Olea europaea and Plantago sp. The prevalence of sensitization to Castanea sativa pollen was very low (7.1 %). Most sensitized patients had asthma and polysensitization. Castanea sativa pollen is not a major cause of pollinosis in our area.     

Iodine nutrition in the adult population of Galicia (Spain).

OBJECTIVE: To identify the current state of iodine nutrition in the adult population of Galicia (Spain), which is considered iodine sufficient based on results from studies carried out on schoolchildren. Urinary iodine concentration (UIC) and its relationship with different socio-demographic variables were assessed. DESIGN: A cross-sectional study was carried out on the population aged above 18 years in the Autonomous Community of Galicia (Spain) during 2004. The UICs were determined in an isolated urine sample using Dunn's colorimetric method. Iodine status was based on World Health Organization/International Council for the Control of Iodine Deficiency Disorders (WHO/ICCIDD) UIC. MAIN OUTCOME: A total of 2877 urine samples were taken. Median UIC for the total Galician population was 75.6 microg/L. About 30% of the population showed a UIC below 50 microg/L. Educational level, place of residence (coast vs. inland), and consumption of iodized salt were independent variables associated with the iodine nutrition of the adult population of Galicia. CONCLUSIONS: There is "mild" iodine deficiency (WHO) in the adult population of Galicia, which affects all the groups analyzed and which is particularly significant in the group of women of a fertile age. The data obtained on the state of iodine nutrition in school-age populations cannot be extended to the adult population.     

Tubulointerstitial nephritis and uveitis syndrome in Southern Spain

OBJECTIVE: To examine immunogenetic and clinical features in a series of patients with the idiopathic tubulointerstitial nephritis and uveitis (TINU) syndrome diagnosed at the single referral hospital for a defined population in Southern Spain. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Retrospective study of the case records of all patients diagnosed with the TINU syndrome in the Departments of Ophthalmology and Medicine of the Valme University Hospital (Seville, Spain) from January 1996 through October 2000. Patients were included in this study if they had a renal biopsy showing interstitial edema and infiltration by lymphocytes, plasma cells, macrophages, eosinophils, and neutrophils. In these cases fibrosis was occasionally seen, but no glomerular changes were found. In addition, a diagnosis of uveitis by expert ophthalmologists was always required. Underlying diseases, which might be responsible for the renal or ocular manifestations, were excluded. Patients were HLA-DRB1 genotyped from DNA by using molecular-based methods. RESULTS: Six patients (4 females) fulfilled the definitions described above. Four were younger than 18 years. In addition to tubulointerstitial nephritis, non-granulomatous uveitis (anterior or panuveitis) associated with low visual acuity was present at the time of diagnosis. Leukocytosis and increase of acute phase reactants were also commonly observed at the time of diagnosis. Topical and oral corticosteroids were prescribed to all the patients. Cyclosporine A therapy was required in 2 cases. After a 2.5-year median follow-up, visual acuity had improved in all cases. Of note, 4 of 6 patients carried the HLA-DRB1*01 allele. CONCLUSION: The TINU syndrome should be considered in the differential diagnosis of patients presenting with visual and renal manifestations. The presence of renal dysfunction in patients with uveitis may be of some help, as a warning sign, for the recognition of patients who require a rapid diagnosis and therapy. In Southern Spain, the TINU syndrome appears to be associated with HLA-DRB1*01 allele.     

Protophormia terraenovae. A new allergenic species in amateur fishermen of Caceres,Spain

BackgroundAsticot maggot (Blowfly, Calliphoridae family) is the most important live bait used for angling in our country. Prevalence of allergy to live fish bait in occupationally exposed workers has been described. The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of asticot allergy in amateur fishermen and the identification of marketed asticot species in Cáceres, Spain.Materials and MethodsSeventy-two randomised selected patients (Angler's Society of Cáceres) completed a questionnaire about fishing habits and allergic symptoms related with live bait handling. Skin prick test (SPT) with local asticot and common earthworm extracts were performed. Serum IgE levels to imported species (Protophormia terraenovae, Calliphora vomitoria, Lucilia sericata, Lumbricus terrestris) were measured. Local asticot and common earthworm samples were obtained for taxonomic identification. Data were analysed using the SPSS 12.0 software.ResultsFive patients (7 %) reported allergic symptoms caused by asticot maggots. All of them were positive for SPT to asticot and specific IgE to P. terraenovae. Sensitisation to P. terraenovae was found in 40 patients (58.8 %). No associated factors for asticot allergy were observed. Larvae and adult flies of local asticot samples were identified as P. terraenovae.ConclusionsCommercially available asticot, in Cáceres, is composed by P. terraenovae larvae (Diptera. Calliphoridae). A 7 % prevalence of P. terraenovae allergy in amateur fishermen of Cáceres was obtained. The allergenic potential of P. terraenovae seems to be greater than that of other blowflies and L. terrestris. The SPT with P. terraenovae extract is a very sensitive and specific technique in the diagnosis of live bait allergy in fishermen.     

Prevalence of latent autoimmune diabetes of adults (LADA) in Southern Spain

OBJECTIVE: To study the prevalence of diabetes mellitus and islet autoantibodies in an adult population from Southern Spain. RESEARCH AND METHODS: A cross-sectional study in Southern Spain of 1226 people, age 18-65 years. Clinical data were obtained and a blood sample taken to measure autoantibodies (glutamic acid decarboxylase antibodies (GADAb), tyrosine phosphatase antibodies (IA2Ab), and insulin antibodies (IAA)). An oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) was also given to 982 of the subjects. RESULTS: The overall prevalence of diabetes mellitus according to the WHO 1979 criteria was 10.9% and according to the ADA 1997 criteria it was 14.7% (8.8% were unaware of their diabetes). The prevalence of impaired fasting glucose (IFG) was 12.4% and of impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) 11.5%. The prevalence of GADAb+ in the general population was 0.9% and in the diabetic population 3.7%. There were no significant differences between groups in the prevalence of IA2Ab or IAA (both were 0.8% in the general population). Of the three autoantibodies studied, only GADAb were significantly different in the diabetic population (P=0.0006). CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence of Type 2 diabetes and LADA are high in the south of Spain.     

Relationship of clinical and aerobiological pollen data in the north-west of Spain

Background: few studies report clinical and aerobiological pollen data in the north-west of Spain, a region similar to northern and central Europe. Moreover, it is difficult to obtain patients' collaboration in filling out symptom cards. The aim of this study was to establish a relationship between pollen types and clinical data obtained through questionnaire and telephone calls.Patients and methods: from January to December 2000, 24 patients aged 28 10.6 years and allergic to pollens were studied. The seasonal and hourly rhythm of symptoms and their intensity were obtained monthly by telephone calls. Atmospheric pollen was collected over the same period using a Hirst-type volumetric pollen sampler.Results: the most important pollen types recorded were Poaceae, Betula, Parietaria and Plantago. Most patients (83 %) showed symptoms during March and in the period between May and July (99 %), which coincided with the greatest quantity of atmospheric pollen. Fifty-six percent of the patients complained of symptoms during the first hours of the morning, 63 % during the central hours of the day and 22 % at nightfall. In specific sensitizations, symptoms were more evident during the hours of maximum atmospheric levels of their taxa.Conclusions: the method employed in the present study to obtain information on patients' symptomatology (telephoning their homes once a month) proved useful and revealed a clear relationship between the presence of certain pollens in the atmosphere and the development of symptoms.     

Tobacco addiction and control in Spain From L. Sanchez Agudo (Health Institute, Madrid, Spain).

In Spain there is a high prevalence of smokers: 39.2% in the general population, 61.9% of the working population, and 35% of doctors. At the same time, health education on smoking is inadequate, and tobacco is cheap. As a result, it is difficult to implement legislation which bans or restricts smoking in some areas. It is clear that more education on smoking and health is needed at every level of the Spanish population.     

Genetic epidemiology of familial amyloid polyneuropathy in the Balearic Islands (Spain).

Between 1976 and 2003, we diagnosed 144 patients with familial amyloid polyneuropathy (FAP) in the Balearic Islands (Spain). Analysis of genetic epidemiological data from 102 confirmed patients showed 62% were men. Parental transmission was paternal in 38, maternal in 25, and unknown in 39. No family history of FAP was found in 32 patients. TTRVal30Met associated with haplotype I was present in the individuals studied. Mean age-at-onset was 45.7 years which lies between that of Sweden and those of Portugal, Japan and Brazil. Duration of FAP was of 9.7 years. Age-at-onset, age-at-death, duration and fertility were similar between sexes. Twenty-nine intergeneration familial pairs of patients were ascertained. Raw anticipation was positive in twenty-four pairs, zero in one, and negative in four. Differences greater than 9 years between age-at-onset of the first and second member were considered relevant; positive relevant anticipation was found in 76% of the whole pairs. The frequency of positive anticipation of parent-child pairs was not significantly different than those described in the Swedish and Portuguese series. Significant positive correlation in age-at-onset was confirmed in twenty-seven types of pairs supporting the hypothesis that a genetic factor may modulate age-at-onset. The Balearic focus of FAP is expanding and constitutes a public health problem.