Patch Testing Animals to Allergenic Fern Spores

Abstract

The health impact of airborne viable particulate air pollutants as respiratory and dermal allergens has been only recently realized.^1-3 Even though considerable information is available on pollen and fungal spores, information on fern spores is scanty. Hausen and Schulz⁴ reported a case of contact dermatitis in a florist due to contact with leather leaf fern during its sporulation period. Koboyashi⁵ observed an allergenic reaction in a dental technician due to Lycopodium spores. Our laboratory has been studying the incidence of allergenic fern spores in the ambient air in an Indian context, performing allergenic tests on sensitive patients, and testing the dermal allergenicity by skin patch testing animal models. Since many ferns sporulate profusely and release spores into the environment in tropical and temperate regions, they could pose health problems due to their allergenicity. The ornamental value of ferns as indoor plants and their extensive use for interior decorations and floral arrangements subject them to constant contact with human skin.