Nasal Allergy and IgE

Abstract

The IgE concentrations of 125 sera with allergic rhinitis were measured by a single radial immunodiffusion. The correlation between serum IgE concentrations and some routine allergy tests was studied. Several diagnostic benefits at allergy practice were obtained from the measurement of serum IgE levels. 1) A case with known allergens, positive atopic histories and the raised IgE level indicates marked immunological abnormalities. 2) In a case with unknown allergens, negative atopic histories and the raised IgE level, histories and skin tests must be rechecked, parasitic infections are necessary to be ruled out. 3) In a case with only one positive allergen on intracutaneous tests and the raised IgE level, there is a possibility that the specific IgE antibody against the positive allergen is present in blood. 4) In a case with positive provocation tests and the raised IgE level, the positive allergen is considered to be a true allergen. Nevertheless the measurement of serum IgE concentrations is thought of not contributing to a direct advantage to the diagnosis and therapy of nasal allergy.