Allergen-specific IgE Antibody Serologic Assays in Patients with Autoimmune Pancreatitis

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Objective To clarify the allergic manifestations in patients with autoimmune pancreatitis (AIP).
Methods We assessed 67 AIP patients, before they received steroid therapy, for a past history of allergic disease, the peripheral eosinophil count (n=62) and the serum IgE level (n=53). Allergen-specific IgE antibody serologic assays were performed in 15 patients.
Results A positive past history and/or the presence of active allergic disease were found in 24 AIP patients (36%), including 15 patients with acute allergic rhinitis and eight patients with bronchial asthma. Peripheral eosinophilia and elevation of the serum IgE level were detected in 16% (10/62) and 60% (32/53) of the patients, respectively. Allergen-specific IgE antibody serologic assays were positive in 13 patients (87%). There were no differences between the assay-positive and -negative patients regarding the clinical profiles.
Conclusion In conclusion, 87% of the 15 AIP patients tested had positive allergen-specific IgE antibody serologic assays. Allergic mechanisms may be related to the occurrence of AIP.