Objective: Aeroallergen sensitization patterns vary by ethnicity and geography; therefore, their effects on allergic diseases are likely regional. This study aimed to determine the current aeroallergen sensitization in our region, contributing to treatment and preventive measures, and to investigate the impact of COVID-19 on this situation.

Materials and Methods: Our study included patients who presented to our hospital's immunology and allergy outpatient clinic between 2021 and 2025 with symptoms of allergic rhinitis and who had been diagnosed with at least one aeroallergen sensitivity through skin prick testing. Drops of aeroallergen extract were first applied to the forearm. The skin is then examined by puncture with a special lancet (Heinz Herenz Hamburg, Germany). Lofarma Aeroallergen Vaccine, which contains standardized aeroallergen extracts with proven efficacy, was used.

Results: Considering all individuals, the indoor aeroallergen frequency was 78.3%, while the outdoor aeroallergen frequency was 57.6%. Among all aeroallergens, the most common aeroallergens were house dust mites and grass pollen (dermatophagoides farinae (n=1135, 49.8%), dermatophagoides pterynossinus (n=1095, 48.1%), and grass pollen (n=1482, 50.2%)), and the sensitization rates to these aeroallergens were similar. The frequency of outdoor aeroallergens, particularly grass pollen, weed pollen, and olive tree pollen, was significantly lower in 2024 than in other years. The prevalence of cat aeroallergens was significantly lower in 2021 compared to the other three years (p=0.036).

Conclusion: Our study showed that indoor sensitization was higher than outdoor sensitization in the Central Anatolia region, with house dust mite (Df) sensitization being the most common indoor aeroallergen, and grass mix sensitization being the most common outdoor aeroallergen. When we examined the distribution over the years, we observed that cat allergy has increased, particularly in the post-COVID-19 period. The diversity of our findings suggests that aeroallergen protection measures can be developed based on regional sensitization differences.