Molecular diagnostics in allergy to mammals. In Molecular allergy diagnostics: Innovation for a better patient management. (Book Chapter)

esides house dust mites, mammals are the principal allergy source in indoor domestic and work environments. Allergens are present in animal hair, saliva, and urine. These allergens, many of which are now well characterized, can be classified into two main families: lipocalins and serum albumins. This chapter describes the properties of allergens from different mammals and their sensitivity rates among persons allergic to animal hair. The importance of both marker and cross-reactive allergens is emphasized, and their additional benefit for clinical diagnostics discussed.