Evolution of the mass distribution of resuspended cat allergen (Fel d 1) indoors following a disturbance

Using a specially designed closed chamber, the time evolution of the size distributions of airborne cat allergen (Fel d 1) was measured at three heights during the first 55 min following resuspension of dust from a carpet using a vacuum cleaner. By analyzing these data, indoor removal rates were estimated, along with the initial concentrations present. These parameters were then used to model the cumulative dose of allergen in various regions of the respiratory tract following a disturbance event. Because most of the resuspended Fel tl 1 mass initially consisted of coarse particles, 77% by mass of the total cumulative dose in the first 30 min after a disturbance was predicted to deposit in the nose. (C) 2001 Published by Elsevier Science Ltd.