Public research notes What is the house dust mite The house dust mite is a tiny scavenger, invisible to the naked eye, commonly found living indoors in damp, dark conditions scavenging on organic material such as discarded skin scales. How mites can cause and trigger allergic disease  Contact with mite droppings can cause ‘allergic-like’ symptoms. In some people continued contact can lead to true allergy and disease.  What can be done to reduce the health risks from mite exposure In some modern homes man has created the perfect conditions for house dust mites to colonize.  These conditions cause an over-exposure to mites and their droppings.    What other ‘events’ make mites more harmful . Exposure to mites can be more harmful following a heavy chesty cold, cigarette smoke, or excessive ozone exposure. Ozone from photocopiers and mite allergens  Mites and ozone, an unhealthy combination House dust mites can make lung inflammation worse The public should be aware of important new research on the activity of the house dust mite enzyme, Der p1 because it not only promotes allergic reactions but also has been shown to hinder important regulators of the pro-inflammatory enzyme elastase. This interference may prolong the healing process following lung tissue injury.  Avoiding mite contact during this critical time may be beneficial.    Life in house dust mite droppings Mites eat organic material including bacteria and fungi. A fungi, known as a separate allergen, is found alive in mite droppings. Bird flu and the house dust mite Exposure to house dust mites during ‘flu, or a heavy cold, can prolong the illness and make symptoms worse. Avoidance of mites, before ‘flu strikes, is advised by doctors. Dog dermatitis is caused by specialized allergens from house dust mites.  Mite diet causes sickness in dogs All 20 allergens from house dust mites must be taken into account in assessing reactions Little is known of the impact that the 20, or so, mite allergens have on the health of mammals.  Traditionally research has focussed on one or two of them (Der p1 and Der p2) consequently they are well described scientifically but researchers have failed to take a ‘snap-shot’ of the total impact all mite allergens have on health. Skin Testing for Allergies A thirty-five year review of skin tests confirms that they remain the central tool in allergic response. Skin prick testing after 14 years The review noted a significant increase in sensitization to house dust mites for all age groups.