Allergic diseases are a significant health problem, affecting millions of people around the world. According to estimates by the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Kazakhstan, up to 20% of the population of Kazakhstan suffers from allergic diseases. The OLYMP laboratory tested the results of allergy testing of thousands of patients across the country. This made it possible to identify the most common types of sensitisation among the population of Kazakhstan. The list of leading allergens includes plant pollen, house dust mites, mould fungi, epidermal and food allergens. This data formed the basis for the regional package "Allergens of Kazakhstan", the composition of which reflects the actual clinical situation in the republic. The tests included in the package are conducted using ImmunoCAP technology, which is recognised as the international standard for laboratory allergy diagnostics. What is included in the package? The package covers the key groups of allergens that most commonly cause symptoms in residents of Kazakhstan. Pollen allergens Birch is the main source of pollen among trees. In the southern regions of Kazakhstan, allergy symptoms can appear as early as March, while in the northern regions, flowering begins in April and continues until the end of May. Timothy grass is one of the most common grasses in Kazakhstan and worldwide. It blooms from late spring to early July. It is associated with the second peak of pollen activity. Ragweed, wormwood, white marigold, quinoa, saltwort, and plantain are common weeds in Kazakhstan that cause the third peak of flowering, which begins in mid-summer and continues until autumn. Household allergens House dust mites (Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus and Dermatophagoides farinae) are one of the leading causes of year-round rhinitis, coughing and asthma attacks. While seasonal triggers are quickly identified, year-round allergens such as mites can go unnoticed, especially if symptoms are mild, gradually causing chronic inflammation and worsening conditions. Epidermal allergens These include allergens from cats, dogs, horses and cows. Even if you do not have pets, contact with their allergens is possible in public places, such as schools, offices, and transport. Their microscopic particles are easily spread through the air, settle on clothing and furniture, and can remain on premises for a long time, triggering allergy symptoms. Mould allergens These include Penicillium chrysogenum, Cladosporium herbarum, Aspergillus fumigatus, Candida albicans, Alternaria alternata, and Setomelanomma rostrata. Their spores are present in the air all year round, with seasonal peaks in spring, summer, and autumn. Food allergens Milk, eggs, peanuts, fish, wheat, soy, nuts, legumes are the main significant food allergens in children and adults. Fruits such as oranges, apples, bananas, and peaches can cause allergic reactions, manifested as oral allergy syndrome (OAS), in people with pollen allergies. This is due to cross-reactivity between pollen proteins and similar proteins in these fruits. Advantages of the "Allergens of Kazakhstan" package Takes regional characteristics into account - includes allergens that are most common among residents of Kazakhstan, from pollen of local plants to household and food triggers. Comprehensive - allows you to identify sensitivity to a wide range of allergens: respiratory, food, mould, and epidermal. Provides a complete picture of the sensitisation profile. A guide for clinical decisions - the test results help the doctor identify areas that require further investigation and determine which allergens are relevant for patient management. Modern ImmunoCAP technology - based on the ImmunoCAP method, which ensures high accuracy and reliability of results. Convenience for the patient: the test can be performed at any age without discontinuing antihistamines. Unlike skin samples, it does not depend on skin condition. Why ImmunoCAP ? High accuracy: high sensitivity and specificity, recognised as the ‘gold standard’ for laboratory allergy diagnosis worldwide. Standardisation - the same technology is used at all stages of diagnosis. Automation - fully automated process reduces the likelihood of errors. Suitable for everyone - the test can be performed at any age and does not depend on medication or skin condition. Conclusion The "Allergens of Kazakhstan" package is a modern allergy diagnostic tool adapted to the specific characteristics of our country. It helps to identify sensitisation to the most significant allergens. For doctors, it is a reliable starting point for further examination and clinical decision-making. For patients, it is an opportunity to gain a clearer understanding of the causes of their symptoms and take the first step towards control of the disease. If you have symptoms similar to allergies, this test can be the first step towards an accurate diagnosis and control of the disease.
