Human Immune Response to Dermatophagoides spp

Abstract

The House dust mites (DPMs) are a major source of indoor aeroallergens and play a role in various allergic diseases, particularly allergic rhinitis, asthma, and atopic dermatitis. In Indonesia, sensitization to DPMs is common in children, and several studies in orphanages and urban areas have shown high levels of DPMs in mattresses and sleeping areas. Although the relationship between DPM density and disease incidence is inconsistent across studies, this article aims to review immune response to Dermatophagoides through a literature review. A search was conducted on scientific publications from 2022–2026 using Google Scholar with the keywords "immune response," "host and mite," and "Dermatophagoides," then selected and analyzed qualitatively. The review results indicate that the DPM life cycle is influenced by temperature and relative humidity >60%. Immunologically, TDR allergens—particularly Der p 1—have protease activity that disrupts the epithelial barrier, activates the innate immune response (alarmin IL-33, TSLP, IL-25) and induces a Th2 response dominance, increased IgE, mast cell activation, and the release of inflammatory mediators. This mechanism triggers type I hypersensitivity reactions in allergic rhinitis and asthma (early and late phases), and exacerbates skin barrier dysfunction and chronic pruritus in atopic dermatitis through cytokine and neurosensory pathways.