How do mice affect allergies in people? - briefly
Mice release skin particles, urine, and dander that contain potent allergens, which can provoke respiratory symptoms in sensitized individuals. Their presence in indoor environments raises allergen concentrations, worsening asthma and allergic rhinitis.
How do mice affect allergies in people? - in detail
Rodent-derived proteins, primarily from house mice, constitute a distinct class of inhalant allergens. The most prevalent molecules, designated Mus m 1 (urinary lipocalin) and Mus m 2 (serum albumin), are released in urine, feces, dander, and saliva. Airborne particles containing these proteins enter indoor environments through ventilation, open doors, and cracks in building envelopes. Continuous exposure generates sensitization in susceptible individuals.
Sensitization proceeds via antigen presentation to CD4⁺ T cells, skewing the response toward a Th2 phenotype. Th2 cytokines (IL‑4, IL‑5, IL‑13) stimulate B‑cell production of IgE specific to mouse proteins. Subsequent IgE binding to mast cells and basophils primes these cells for degranulation upon re‑exposure, releasing histamine, leukotrienes, and prostaglandins. The resulting inflammatory cascade manifests as airway hyperresponsiveness, mucus hypersecretion, and vascular leakage.
Epidemiological surveys identify indoor mouse exposure as a risk factor for allergic disease, especially in densely populated urban housing, agricultural settings, and laboratory facilities. Studies report sensitization rates of 5–15 % among inner‑city children and up to 30 % in occupational cohorts. Correlative data link mouse allergen concentrations exceeding 1 µg/g of dust to increased incidence of asthma exacerbations and allergic rhinitis.
Clinically, mouse sensitization presents with:
- Nasal congestion, sneezing, and ocular pruritus (allergic rhinitis).
- Cough, wheeze, and shortness of breath (asthma).
- Eczematous skin lesions in direct contact (dermatitis).
Diagnostic confirmation employs skin‑prick testing with standardized mouse extracts and serum assays for mouse‑specific IgE. Component‑resolved diagnostics differentiate sensitization to Mus m 1 versus Mus m 2, aiding risk stratification.
Control strategies focus on reducing indoor allergen load:
- Seal cracks and install door sweeps to prevent entry.
- Employ traps and bait stations for population reduction.
- Maintain low humidity and regular cleaning to limit dust accumulation.
- Use high‑efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filtration in ventilation systems.
Therapeutic management combines allergen avoidance with pharmacologic interventions (inhaled corticosteroids, leukotriene modifiers) and, where indicated, subcutaneous or sublingual immunotherapy targeting mouse proteins. Immunotherapy has demonstrated reductions in symptom severity and medication use in sensitized patients.
Overall, mouse‑derived allergens provoke IgE‑mediated inflammation that exacerbates respiratory and cutaneous allergic conditions. Effective mitigation requires integrated environmental control, accurate diagnosis, and tailored immunologic treatment.