ABSTRACT
Because the combination of sensitization and exposure to inhaled environmental allergens is related to both the development of asthma and elicitation of symptoms, it follows that avoidance of allergens would exert beneficial effects in the prevention and control of the disease. Allergens may, however, be difficult to avoid, and despite the advances in knowledge surrounding allergens, our understanding of the threshold levels of exposure required for sensitization and induction of symptoms is limited. These problems complicate the investigation of allergen reduction and its clinical efficacy. Most studies have focused upon allergen reduction as a primary endpoint. Fewer studies have been designed to specifically address clinical efficacies of allergen avoidance interventions. This chapter will review what is known about allergen avoidance with attention to specific indoor allergens and strategies for reducing exposure.
