Environment and sensitization to cypress in Israel.

Abstract

Cypresses are part of the Israeli landscape, as well as they are over most of the Mediterranian area. Pollen dispersal starts in January and peaks in March-April. Assessment of hay-fever patients showed a prevalence of 24%-32% (depending on the region) sensitization to Cypress (Cupressus sempervirens) pollen extracts. 13% of all those who are sensitive to Cypress were monosensitized. They are symptomatic from February till April, when 70% of them have rhinitis, 30% also asthma and 18% conjunctivitis. In the monosensitized patients, anti-cypress immunotherapy was successful.