Aeropalinological study of allergenic plants: pollinosis prediction and prevention in Ulyanovsk

Pollinosis occupies a leading place among allergic diseases. However, allergenic plants and their palynological complexes are insufficiently studied not only in Russia, but worldwide. No one has ever carried out aeropalinological studies on the territory of the Ulyanovsk region. The aim of the study is to identify allergenic plants in the Ulyanovsk region, and to study air pollen concentration in order to prevent pollinosis. Materials and Methods. The objects of research were allergenic plants and their pollen complexes, which were examined for the first time in our region. The authors conducted floristic and phenological studies, calculated the pollen concentration of allergenic plants in the air (April-September). They used Post's method while working with pollen, examined it under the microscope (15x40 magnification), and determined allergenicity index. Results. As a result of floristic and phenological observations, the authors identified 138 species of allergenic plants, including 68 high and medium allergenic plants. The allergenicity index was 259. Thus, Ulyanovsk can be considered as one of the most allergic regions. It was found that the largest amount of pollen grains during the entire flowering period of allergenic plants was observed in the industrial area. Moreover, June and July are the most dangerous months for people allergic to Poaceae, Chenopodiaceae, and Asteraceae. The dynamics of pollen concentration during three pollen waves was presented. The most dangerous waves were the second and the third, while the first wave was the least dangerous one. Results. The results obtained can help in planning preventive measures and treating pollinosis.