Sensitization to Aspergillus Mix Among Atopic Sickle Cell Disease Patients in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire

Abstract

The objective of this study was to determine the epidemiological characteristics of sensitization to Aspergillus in these atopic sickle cell patients who present respiratory disorders unrelated to taking NSAIDs. This is a prospective study with a descriptive and analytical aim which was conducted at the University Hospital Center (CHU) of Cocody (Abidjan). It took place from September 2017 to May 2018 on 117 atopic sickle cell disease patients, with no known history of allergy to aeroallergens, to any foods or to occupational allergens. These patients were interviewed and clinically examined for an atopic site. They were subsequently subjected to skin tests. Statistical analyzes were performed using Epi info 6.0 software using Fisher s test and odds ratio. The significance level was located at an odds ratio greater than 1. The comparison of the percentages was carried out by Fisher s test with a significance level p = 0.05. The majority of patients with sensitization to Aspergillus mix were over 15 years of age, with a predominance of women (Sex ratio: 0.56). Neither sex nor age appeared to influence the state of sensitization in our study (p> 0.05). The overall prevalence of sensitization to Aspergillus mix was 7.7%. Our results correlated asthma severity with sensitization to Aspergillus mix (p<0.05). However, there was no significant correlation between severity of allergic rhinitis and sensitization to Apergillus mix. This study confirms the low prevalence of sensitization to Aspergillus mix. Allergy to Aspergillus mix is an uncommon phenomenon in sickle cell patients but its monitoring in this population should be given special attention as it is subject to many complications.