Korean J Asthma Allergy Clin Immunol.
2004 Sep;24(3):346-349.
A Case of Cow Hair-Induced Asthma in a Child Living in a Cow Raising Farm
Abstract
- It is known that proteins of mammalian origin, especially domestic animals, can be potentially allergenic to persons inhaling them. Here we report a case of allergic asthma due to cow hair in a child living in a cow raising farm. A 15-year-old girl presented with cough and dyspnea developed since 6 years. Her parents had raised cows on their farm for 20 years. The methacholine bronchial provocation test was positive with PC20 of 0.6 mg/mL. She showed positive skin prick reactions to commercial allergens, such as house dust mites, cow, horse, and cat, as well as to allergen extracts prepared with cow hair. The bronchial provocation test with cow hair revealed an isolated early asthmatic response, while the challenge test with dust mite was negative. In conclusion, the cow hair can induce allergic asthma in a child who is brought up in the cow raising farm.