Allergic sensitization pattern in pediatric population: A cross-sectional study in Cartagena, Colombia

Patrón de sensibilización alérgica en población pediátrica: un estudio transversal en Cartagena, Colombia

Abstract

Background: Allergic diseases represent a growing public health concern in pediatric populations, particularly in tropical regions where environmental conditions influence sensitization patterns. Limited epidemiological data exist for tropical coastal communities. Objective: To characterize the prevalence of specific allergic conditions, identify the most clinically relevant allergens, and examine polysensitization patterns in a pediatric population from Cartagena, Colombia. Design, setting, and patients: Cross-sectional study conducted between December 2024 and March 2025 at a Respiratory and Allergy Clinic, Colombia, including 122 consecutive pediatric patients aged 3–17 years with clinical suspicion of allergic disease. Skin prick tests were performed using 33 standardized allergen extracts in accordance with EAACI recommendations. Clinical diagnoses were made according to the ARIA 2020, GINA 2023, Hanifin-Rajka, and EAACI/GA2LEN/EDF/WAO 2022 criteria.