Mattress covers not coverall for atopic dermatitis
11 October 2002
Mattress covers may reduce exposure to dust mite allergen but that doesn't translate into improved atopic dermatitis symptoms, research from the Netherlands shows.
Some 86 people, aged 8 to 50 years, with atopic dermatitis who were sensitised to house dust mites used either cotton covers or covers impermeable to dust mites on their mattress, doona and pillows for 12 months.
People who used the impermeable covers were exposed to half the level of dust mite allergen compared to those who used the cotton ones.
But there were no significant clinical changes between the 2 groups (Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology 2002; 110: 500-06).
Reducing exposure to allergens at work, school and outdoors may be as important.
Last Reviewed: 11 October 2002
- 1. Medical Observer Weekly 11/10/02
