ABSTRACT
From the early 1960s, considerable literature has been published concerning the taxonomy, biology, immunochemistry, and control of mites implicated in allergic reactions. Numerous species have been described as the source of allergens capable of sensitizing and inducing allergic symptoms in sensitized and genetically predisposed individuals. Allergic diseases triggered by mite allergens include allergic rhinoconjunctivitis, asthma, atopic dermatitis, and other skin diseases. The most studied species, because of their abundance and allergenic importance, belong to the family Pyroglyphidae, especially Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus, D. farinae, and Euroglyphus maynei. These mites are called house-dust mites. House-dust mites are commonly present in human dwellings and are especially abundant in mattresses, sofas, carpets, and blankets. Other species, such as D. microceras, D. siboney, and Gymnoglyphus longior, and other genera, such as Hirstia and Malayoglyphus, are also considered allergenic, although their study is limited.
