Abstract
The effect of HG (Histamine-Gammaglobulin-Conjugate), which has been used to treat allergic rhinitis, was studied in actively sensitized Hartley guinea pigs weighing 200-300g.
After a sensitizing application of 10% TDI (toluene diisocyanate) to the noses of guinea pigs, we confirmed sensitization by applying 5% TDI. Eight sensitized and seven nonsensitized guinea pigs received subcutaneous injections of HG or saline.
Symptom scores were recorded, and the therapeutic effect was assessed. Furthermore, after challenge of the animals, the histamine content of the blood, the turbinates and the lungs was determined after sacrifice under general anesthesia with pentobarbital sodium.
Five of the seven treated with HG showed a good response, while none of those injected with saline improved. The group treated with HG had a higher content of histamine in the turbinates and the lungs, but a lower blood level than the control group.
This experiment on model animals with nasal allergy verified the safety and therapeutic effectiveness of HG. The tissue histamine content suggested that HG inhibits histamine release from mast cells.
