House dust mites and cockroachesd2

Allergy to D. farinae

D. farinae is one of the two common species of house dust mite. It tolerates drier air than D. pteronyssinus and is most common in North America, but is also found in Europe.

Allergen
House dust mite (D. farinae) Dermatophagoides farinae
Allergen code
d2
Season
All year round
Key allergens
Der f 1, Der f 2
Included in
3 tests
Contents
  1. What is D. farinae?
  2. Symptoms
  3. Cross-reactivity
  4. How to get tested
  5. Frequently asked questions

What is D. farinae?

Dermatophagoides farinae, sometimes called the American house dust mite, is one of the two species of house dust mite that most often cause allergy. The mites feed on skin flakes in beds, upholstered furniture and textiles. The allergens, including Der f 1 and Der f 2, are found in the mites' droppings and mix with the dust.

D. farinae copes with drier air than the European species D. pteronyssinus and can therefore also be found where indoor air is dry.

Symptoms

  • A blocked or runny nose all year round
  • Sneezing and itchy eyes, often in the morning
  • Coughing, wheezing and asthma, often at night
  • Worsening eczema

Cross-reactivity

The allergens of D. farinae and D. pteronyssinus are very similar, so most people with house dust mite allergy have IgE to both. Testing both species still gives a clearer picture, as some people react more to one of them. Tropomyosin in mites also resembles proteins in cockroaches and shellfish.

How to get tested

D. farinae (allergen code d2) is included in our House dust mite allergy, Indoor allergens and Airborne allergy tests. The test shows whether you have IgE antibodies to the mite.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between d1 and d2?

d1 is D. pteronyssinus and d2 is D. farinae, the two most common species of house dust mite. Their allergens are very similar, but the species thrive in slightly different climates.

How do I reduce the number of mites at home?

Wash bedding at 60 °C or above, air the bedroom and keep the indoor air cool and dry. Mite-proof covers for the mattress and pillow can also help.

Often cross-reacts with

This text is general information and does not replace an assessment by a healthcare professional. In an emergency, call 112. If you have questions about your health, contact your doctor.

Tests for allergy to D. farinae

You take the sample yourself at home. The tests measure IgE antibodies in a capillary blood sample.

House dust mites and cockroaches

House dust mites live in beds and textiles and cause symptoms all year round, often worst at night and in the morning. Cockroaches are uncommon in cooler countries but common in warmer ones.

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