Quantitative determination of Der p I allergen levels in allergenic extracts and house-dust samples

House-dust mites are responsible for serious respiratory diseases in humans. An ELISA assay to detect Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus (Dp) mites has been set up. This assay, based on quantitative determination of the major Dp allergen, called Der p I, has been applied for the analysis of growing mite cultures and house-dust samples. Der p I allergen levels in mite cultures are well correlated with the number of mites present as well as with the biological activity of the corresponding extracts. Different methods for detecting Dp mites in house-dust samples were compared. The ELISA method shows good sensitivity and specificity, and is particularly suitable for routine analyses.