Quantitative analysis of cross-sensitization between Betulaceae and Fagaceae pollen based on skin prick test results
10.4168/aard.2026.14.2.77
- Author:
Jung-Hyuck SUH
1
Author Information
1. Allen Jung ENT Clinic, Seoul, Korea
- Publication Type:ORIGINAL ARTICLE
- From:Allergy, Asthma & Respiratory Disease
2026;14(2):77-83
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Purpose:This study investigated sensitization patterns and potential cross-sensitization among tree pollens of the Betulaceae (birch, alder, hazel) and Fagaceae (oak, beech) families, based on skin prick test results. Comparisons were also made with non-tree allergens, including mugwort, cat, and cockroach.
Methods:We retrospectively analyzed skin prick test results of 1,812 patients evaluated between 2010 and 2013. A positive reaction was defined as an allergen-to-histamine wheal ratio of 1.0 or higher. Sensitization rates were calculated, and cross-sensitization was assessed by analyzing simultaneous positivity rates, conditional probabilities, and Pearson correlation coefficients based on raw skin prick test scores (0, 2, 3, and 4).
Results:The sensitization rates were 12.4% for birch, 11.0% for alder, 11.1% for hazel, 14.6% for oak, and 14.1% for beech. Strong correlations were observed within Betulaceae (r= 0.78–0.85) and within Fagaceae (r= 0.76). Moderate to strong correlations were also found between Betulaceae and Fagaceae (r = 0.70–0.80), suggesting inter-family cross-sensitization. Simultaneous positivity and conditional probabilities were also high within and between Betulaceae and Fagaceae, reinforcing the observed cross-sensitization patterns. In contrast, mugwort, cat, and cockroach showed weak correlations (r = 0.35–0.37 for mugwort; r ≤ 0.26 for cat and cockroach) and low simultaneous positivity and conditional probabilities, indicating limited cross-reactivity. All correlations were statistically significant (P < 0.001).
Conclusion:These findings demonstrate strong associations among tree pollen allergens within and between Betulaceae and Fagaceae, reflecting molecular-level cross-reactivity, supporting their clinical relevance in allergy diagnosis and treatment planning.
