Abstract
In a study done between 1982-1986, 129 patients with allergic rhinitis were followed-up in the Outpatient Department of King Fahd University Hospital, Al-Khobar (Saudi Arabia). Eighty patients were males (62%), 49 patients were females (38%); 71% Saudis, and 29% non-Saudis. Routine laboratory investigations, IgE and skin test were performed. The commonest allergens were pollens, house dust and cat danders. We found that males were significantly more affected than females, particularly in the cases of ages between 20-30 years. Beside the known causes, other factors such as the increase of plantation and local customs are discussed.