A summary of the atmospheric surveys published in the United States allergy literature, 1966-1996

Abstract

Objective: In this investigation we sought to summarize the atmospheric surveys that were published in two United States allergy journals (and subsequent series) during a 31-year period beginning in 1966.

Data sources: All original articles published in the Annals of Allergy (and its subsequent series) and the Journal of Allergy (and its subsequent series) were cataloged in a computer database beginning with the first issues of 1966. Publications were classified in a manner reflecting their aerobiologic content.

Study selection: From this database of articles (n = 7,403), atmospheric surveys for pollen, spores, and other aeroflora were identified and summarized according to standard criteria. For each study we documented the sampling instruments used, the height of these instruments off of the ground, the study period, and the sampling schedule.

Results: Sixty-one atmospheric surveys were summarized: 30 from locations in the United States and 31 from outside of the country. Various volumetric and nonvolumetric samplers were used; the height of instruments above the ground and the sampling protocols varied widely.

Conclusions: This investigation can serve as a companion to earlier compilations. These data should prove more useful than information available via electronic and paper indexes.