Sensitization to which aeroallergen is associated with the development of persistent asthma in children under 6?

The association of sensitization to Alternaria, a type of mold, with the development of persistent asthma in children under 6 is particularly significant. Research indicates that exposure to certain fungal allergens, such as those from Alternaria species, is linked to asthma exacerbations and can contribute to the development of persistent asthma in susceptible children. This is attributed to the fact that children with early sensitization to these mold spores often experience more severe respiratory issues, leading to persistent asthma rather than intermittent symptoms.

In contrast, while grass pollen, dust mites, and cat dander are recognized allergens that can contribute to asthma symptoms, their association with persistent asthma in very young children is not as strong as that of Alternaria. Grass pollen tends to have a seasonal impact, making it less likely to be a cause of persistent symptoms in young children. Dust mites are indeed a common trigger for asthma; however, sensitization to Alternaria carries a higher risk factor for developing long-term asthma symptoms in this age group. Similarly, while cat dander is an important allergen, its role in the persistent asthma pathway in young children is less well-established than that of mold allergens like Alternaria.