The authors analyzed the records of 53 patients where in 1985-1999 occupational diseases clinics in Plzeň and Olomouc reported allergic rhinitis - in 28 only rhinitis was involved, 25 developed later bronchial asthma. Patients with rhinitis complicated by bronchial asthma had a higher mean age and longer period of exposure. Rhinitis complicated by asthma was found more frequently in bakers, in patients with positive tests for mites and in patients with a major number of positive reactions during testing. Within the framework of prevention the authors emphasize above all responsibl e allocation of work to patients with allergoses and early re-allotment of patients with rhinitis to work not involving exposure to proved allergens.

        Key words: allergic rhinitis, bronchial asthma, allergy, farmers, workers in food industry