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Skin Prick Test (skin + prick_test)
Kinds of Skin Prick Test Selected AbstractsThe clinical significance of food specific IgE/IgG4 in food specific atopic dermatitisPEDIATRIC ALLERGY AND IMMUNOLOGY, Issue 1 2007Geunwoong Noh Food is closely associated with the pathogenesis of atopic dermatitis. Food allergy is usually mediated by IgE antibody to specific food proteins and determination of specific IgE antibody is the basis of the common diagnostic test for food allergy. IgG4 have been reported as blocking antibody and the protective effects of blocking antibody may be clear in inhalant allergy. However, the role of IgG4 in food allergy is still a matter of debate. In this study, the clinical significance of food allergen-specific IgE/IgG4 in atopic dermatitis was investigated and compared with that of IgE. A total of 97 patients who fulfilled the diagnostic criteria for atopic dermatitis participated in this study. Skin prick test and allergy patch test were performed. Specific IgE and IgG4 concentration were measured using allergy protein chip, ,AllergyChip'. Double blinded placebo controlled food challenge test (DBPCFC) was performed for the diagnosis of allergy to milk, egg white, wheat, and soybean. DBPCFCs for milk, egg white, soybean, and wheat were performed. The positive rates were 31.7% (19/60) in milk, 36.7% (18/49) in egg white, 30.4% (7/23) in soybean, and 34.8% (8/23) in wheat. Mean IgE/IgG4 levels in DBPCFC (+) subjects is higher than those in DBPCFC (,) subjects in all food items studied. Of them, there were significantly different between two groups in egg white and wheat (Egg white in DBPCFC (+) vs. (,): 0.4 ± 0.3 vs. 0.2 ± 0.2, wheat in DBPCFC (+) vs. (,): 1.2 ± 1.2 vs. 0.3 ± 0.3, p < 0.05). Allergen-specific IgE/IgG4 may provide one of the clues to understand the mechanism of food allergy in atopic dermatitis. The present study suggests that protein microarray can be one of the useful methods to assess ongoing status of allergic diseases. [source] Cow's milk allergic children can present sensitisation to probioticsACTA PAEDIATRICA, Issue 2 2009Francesca M Bruni Abstract Aim: To evaluate sensitivity to different probiotics in children with cow's milk allergy. Methods: Eighty-five patients (age range: 4 months ,12 years) presenting atopic dermatitis (AD) were enrolled. Skin prick test (SPT) responses to three different probiotics preparations (Fiorilac®, Dicoflor® and Reuterin®) were evaluated in addition to relevant food allergens. Results: Thirty-nine patients out of 85 (45.8%) had a positive skin response to prick test for cow's milk (3 with reaction <3 mm). Of the thirty-six patients with a cow's milk weal reaction >3 mm, twenty-eight (77.8%) had a skin response to Fiorilac®, four patients (11%) to Dicoflor® and four (11%) to Reuterin®. The proportion of SPT reaction to all the investigated probiotics preparations was significantly lower than cow's milk (r = 9.406; p = 0.002). A significantly higher sensitization was observed for Fiorilac® versus Dicoflor® (r = 30.916; p < 0.001) and versus Reuterin® (r = 34.133; p < 0.001). Conclusion: Probiotic use in patients with cow's milk allergy has to be limited to products that do not contain milk. This should be clearly reported in the label. In selected patients, it is advisable to perform a screening SPT with the product to evaluate its potential contamination with milk. [source] Potato lectin activates basophils and mast cells of atopic subjects by its interaction with core chitobiose of cell-bound non-specific immunoglobulin ECLINICAL & EXPERIMENTAL IMMUNOLOGY, Issue 3 2007S. N. Pramod Summary A major factor in non-allergic food hypersensitivity could be the interaction of dietary lectins with mast cells and basophils. Because immunoglobulin E (IgE) contains 10,12% carbohydrates, lectins can activate and degranulate these cells by cross-linking the glycans of cell-bound IgE. The present objective focuses on the effect of potato lectin (Solanum tuberosum agglutinin; STA) for its ability to release histamine from basophils in vitro and mast cells in vivo from non-atopic and atopic subjects. In this study, subjects were selected randomly based on case history and skin prick test responses with food, pollen and house dust mite extracts. Skin prick test (SPT) was performed with STA at 100 µg/ml concentration. Histamine release was performed using leucocytes from non-atopic and atopic subjects and rat peritoneal exudate cells. SPT on 110 atopic subjects using STA showed 39 subjects positive (35%); however, none showed STA-specific IgE; among 20 non-atopic subjects, none were positive by SPT. Maximal histamine release was found to be 65% in atopic subjects (n = 7) compared to 28% in non-atopic subjects (n = 5); the release was inhibited specifically by oligomers of N -acetylglucosamine and correlates well with serum total IgE levels (R2 = 0·923). Binding of STA to N -linked glycoproteins (horseradish peroxidase, avidin and IgG) was positive by dot blot and binding assay. As potato lectin activates and degranulates both mast cells and basophils by interacting with the chitobiose core of IgE glycans, higher intake of potato may increase the clinical symptoms as a result of non-allergic food hypersensitivity in atopic subjects. [source] An Outbreak of Respiratory Diseases among Workers at a Water-Damaged Building , A Case ReportINDOOR AIR, Issue 3 2000MARKKU SEURI Abstract We describe a military hospital building with severe, repeated and enduring water and mold damage, and the symptoms and diseases found among 14 persons who were employed at the building. The exposure of the employees was evaluated by measuring the serum immunoglobulin G (IgG)-antibodies against eight spieces of mold and yeast common in Finnish water and mold damaged buildings and by sampling airborne viable microbes within the hospital. The most abundant spieces was Sporobolomyces salmonicolor. All but one of the employees reported some building-related symptoms, the most common being a cough which was reported by nine subjects. Four new cases of asthma, confirmed by S. salmonicolor inhalation provocation tests, one of whom was also found to have alveolitis, were found among the hospital personnel. In addition, seven other workers with newly diagnosed rhinitis reacted positively in nasal S. salmonicolor provocation tests. Skin prick tests by Sporobolomyces were negative among all 14 workers. Exposure of the workers to mold and yeast in the indoor air caused an outbreak of occupational diseases, including asthma, rhinitis and alveolitis. The diseases were not immunoglobulin E (IgE)-mediated but might have been borne by some other, as yet unexplained, mechanism. [source] Relationship between adipokines and manifestations of childhood asthmaPEDIATRIC ALLERGY AND IMMUNOLOGY, Issue 6 2008Kyung W. Kim Although the prevalences of asthma and obesity are increasing substantially in recent decades, very little is known about the possible association between them. We evaluated the roles of leptin, adiponectin, and resistin, which are adipokines produced by adipose tissue, on childhood asthma, and their association with pulmonary function and bronchial hyperresponsiveness. We studied 149 atopic asthmatic children, 37 non-atopic asthmatic children, and 54 healthy children. Body mass index was calculated using height and weight, which were measured on the same day that pulmonary function tests and methacholine challenge tests were performed. Skin prick tests were performed, and total eosinophil count, total serum immunoglobulin E (IgE), serum eosinophil cationic protein, leptin, adiponectin, and resistin were measured in all subjects. Atopic asthmatics had lower resistin levels compared with non-atopic asthma and control groups, but leptin and adiponectin did not show any difference among these three groups. Resistin demonstrated positive correlation with methacholine PC20 and negative correlations with eosinophil count and serum total IgE. Leptin and adiponectin showed associations with forced expiratory volume in 1 s or forced expiratory flow between 25,75%. Multiple regression analysis revealed that resistin was a significant predictive factor for asthma. There was no direct association between asthma and leptin or adiponectin. Our findings suggest that resistin may play a negative predictive role in asthma. Adiponectin and leptin showed close associations with pulmonary function and may have disease-modifying effects in children with asthma. [source] Efficacy of 1.25% and 1% topical cyclosporine in the treatment of severe vernal keratoconjunctivitis in childhoodPEDIATRIC ALLERGY AND IMMUNOLOGY, Issue 7 2006Laura Spadavecchia Cyclosporine eyedrops 2% have been used for treatment of corticosteroid-resistant vernal keratoconjunctivitis (VKC) cases. The purpose of our study was to verify the efficacy of 1.25% vs. 1% topical cyclosporine in improving severe form of VKC in childhood. Twenty children with severe VKC, were enrolled in a double-blind, placebo-controlled study and received cyclosporine 1.25% in one eye for 2 wk. Then an open trial was conducted during the next 3 months and 2 wk. Thirty-two more patients were recruited the next year into a new open trial and they received cyclosporine 1% for 4 months. Ocular subjective symptoms and objective signs were scored in all children at entry, 2 wk and 4 months. Skin prick tests and conjunctival scraping tests were also performed; serum immunological and biochemical markers were assessed. The mean score values for severity of subjective symptoms and objective signs were significantly decreased after 2 wk, and 4 months, compared with those at entry (p < 0.001), in both groups of children who received cyclosporine eyedrops 1.25% and 1%, respectively. Serum markers did not differ from the beginning to the end of treatment. Conjunctival eosinophils and cyclosporine serum levels were not detectable at the end of therapy, nor were endothelial corneal cells damaged. Our findings suggest that 1% cyclosporine concentration might be the minimal effective treatment regimen to control symptoms and local inflammation in severe forms of VKC. [source] Occupational allergy and asthma among salt water fish processing workersAMERICAN JOURNAL OF INDUSTRIAL MEDICINE, Issue 12 2008Mohamed F. Jeebhay MBChB Abstract Background Fish processing is a common economic activity in Southern Africa. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence and host determinants of allergic symptoms, allergic sensitization, bronchial hyper-responsiveness and asthma among workers processing saltwater fish. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted on 594 currently employed workers in two processing plants involved in pilchard canning and fishmeal processing. A modified European Community Respiratory Health Survey (ECRHS) questionnaire was used. Skin prick tests (SPT) used extracts of common airborne allergens, fresh fish (pilchard, anchovy, maasbanker, mackerel, red eye) and fishmeal. Spirometry and methacholine challenge tests (MCTs; tidal breathing method) used ATS guidelines. Results Work-related ocular-nasal symptoms (26%) were more common than asthma symptoms (16%). The prevalence of atopy was 36%, while 7% were sensitized to fish species and 26% had NSBH (PC20,,,8 mg/ml or ,12% increase in FEV1 post-bronchodilator). The prevalence of probable occupational asthma was 1.8% and fish allergic rhino-conjunctivitis 2.6%. Women were more likely to report work-related asthma symptoms (OR,=,1.94) and have NSBH (OR,=,3.09), while men were more likely to be sensitized to fish (OR,=,2.06) and have airway obstruction (OR,=,4.17). Atopy (OR,=,3.16) and current smoking (OR,=,2.37), but not habitual seafood consumption were associated with sensitization to fish. Conclusions Based on comparison with previous published studies, the prevalence of occupational asthma to salt water fish is lower than due to shellfish. The gendered distribution of work and exposures in fish processing operations together with atopy and cigarette smoking are important determinants of occupational allergy and asthma. Am. J. Ind. Med. 51:899,910, 2008. © 2008 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source] Alternative glucocorticoids for use in cases of adverse reaction to systemic glucocorticoids: a study on 10 patientsBRITISH JOURNAL OF DERMATOLOGY, Issue 1 2003M.T. Ventura Summary Background Reactions to systemically administered corticosteroids are rare, despite their widespread use. Objectives To identify alternative glucocorticoids for emergency use in patients with adverse reactions to systemic glucocorticoids. Methods Ten patients were identified as having adverse reactions after the use of systemic corticosteroids. Skin prick tests and intradermal tests to hydrocortisone (HC) and methylprednisolone (MP), and intradermal tests to betamethasone and dexamethasone, were performed in all patients, and oral challenge tests to betamethasone (n=10) and deflazacort (n=6). Results Skin prick tests were negative in all patients, whereas intradermal tests to HC and MP were positive in eight; two patients showed only an isolated cutaneous sensitivity to MP. Intradermal tests to betamethasone and dexamethasone were negative, and oral challenge tests were negative in all patients. Conclusions Our results suggest the possibility of an IgE-mediated mechanism for allergic reactions to HC and MP, probably due, at least in part, to a steroid-glyoxal. We suggest that betamethasone and deflazacort could be reserved for emergency use in patients with adverse reactions to other corticosteroids. [source] Fish oil supplementation in pregnancy and lactation may decrease the risk of infant allergyACTA PAEDIATRICA, Issue 9 2009Catrin Furuhjelm Abstract Maternal intake of omega- 3 (,-3) polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) during pregnancy has decreased, possibly contributing to a current increased risk of childhood allergy. Aim:, To describe the effects of maternal ,-3 long-chain PUFA supplementation during pregnancy and lactation on the incidence of allergic disease in infancy. Methods:, One hundred and forty-five pregnant women, affected by allergy themselves or having a husband or previous child with allergies, were included in a randomized placebo-controlled trial. Daily maternal supplementation with either 1.6 g eicosapentaenoic acid and 1.1 g docosahexaenoic acid or placebo was given from the 25th gestational week to average 3,4 months of breastfeeding. Skin prick tests, detection of circulating specific immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies and clinical examinations of the infants were performed. Results:, The period prevalence of food allergy was lower in the ,-3 group (1/52, 2%) compared to the placebo group (10/65, 15%, p < 0.05) as well as the incidence of IgE-associated eczema (,-3 group: 4/52, 8%; placebo group: 15/63, 24%, p < 0.05). Conclusion:, Maternal ,-3 fatty acid supplementation may decrease the risk of food allergy and IgE-associated eczema during the first year of life in infants with a family history of allergic disease. [source] Peanut cross-reacting allergens in seeds and sprouts of a range of legumesCLINICAL & EXPERIMENTAL ALLERGY, Issue 12 2008L. B. Jensen Summary Background Recently, peanut-allergic patients have reported symptoms upon ingestion of bean sprouts produced from various legumes. Objective This study was designed to identify immunoreactivity to seeds and sprouts of legumes other than peanut in sera from peanut-allergic patients. Methods Crude protein extracts of seeds and sprouts (comprising cotelydons and hypocotyls/epicotyls) of peanut, soybean, green pea, blue lupine, mung bean, alfalfa, broad bean, and azuki bean were prepared. The reactivity of sera from 10 peanut-allergic patients to these extracts was analysed by indirect histamine release (HR), enzyme-allergosorbent test (EAST), EAST inhibition, and Western blots. Skin prick tests (SPTs) were performed on the patients with fresh legume seeds as well as four commercial legume sprouts, and food challenges with soybean, pea, and lupine were performed on a subgroup of the patients. Results All legume seeds and commercial sprouts induced positive SPTs in some of the patients. Indirect HR experiments indicated an extensive co-reactivity between peanut and the legumes, and cross-reactivity was observed for soybean, pea, and lupine seeds as well as lupine hypocotyls in EAST inhibition experiments. Of the 16 protein extracts, soybean, pea, and lupine seed extracts produced visible bands in Western blots. Conclusion The symptoms reported by peanut-allergic patients after legume sprout intake might be caused by cross-reactivity of peanut-specific antibodies. The intake of raw legume sprouts might cause symptoms in peanut-allergic patients. [source] Diagnosis of Parietaria judaica pollen allergy using natural and recombinant Par j 1 and Par j 2 allergensCLINICAL & EXPERIMENTAL ALLERGY, Issue 2 2007R. González-Rioja Summary Background Parietaria judaica pollen is one of the main causes of allergic diseases in the Mediterranean area and contains two major allergens, called Par j 1 and Par j 2. Objective To evaluate the diagnostic potential of natural and recombinant forms of Par j 1 and Par j 2 in comparison with standardized P. judaica pollen extract. Methods Thirty patients allergic to P. judaica pollen and 15 control patients were investigated. Skin prick tests and determination of specific IgE levels were performed with commercial P. judaica extract, natural Par j 1 and Par j 2, and recombinant forms of both allergens expressed in P. pastoris. Results The whole group of patients with allergy to P. judaica had a positive skin test reaction to purified nPar j 1,Par j 2 and rPar j 2 at 5 ,g/mL, and no false-positive reactions were detected. Natural and recombinant Par j 1 and Par j 2 showed no significantly different responses in skin tests compared with P. judaica extract. A high correlation was found between the serum-specific IgE levels to P. judaica extract vs. natural (R=0.996; P<0.001) and recombinant allergens (R=0.887 and 0.982 for rPar j 1 and rPar j 2, respectively; P<0.001). rPar j 2 displayed a 100% sensitivity and specificity among P. judaica -allergic patients. Conclusions In vivo and in vitro diagnosis of P. judaica pollen allergy could be simplified using rPar j 2. This protein showed comparable IgE response and skin prick reactivity with those produced by P. judaica pollen extract. [source] High-dose exposure to cat is associated with clinical tolerance , a modified Th2 immune response?CLINICAL & EXPERIMENTAL ALLERGY, Issue 12 2003B. Hesselmar Summary Background Allergen-specific IgG4 antibodies, it is suggested, may be protecting against allergy development by blocking responses. Levels are proposed as a marker of modified Th2 response. Objectives To assess the levels of IgE, IgG1 and IgG4 antibodies to cat in relation to cat exposure, asthma and allergic diseases. Methods We studied a population-based sample of 412 schoolchildren of 12,13 years of age. Parents of 402 children completed a questionnaire covering their child's medical history, the keeping of cats and other background data. Skin prick tests (SPTs) to common aeroallergens were performed in 371 of the children. Blood samples for the analyses of IgE, IgG1 and IgG4 antibodies were obtained from 309 of them. Results All children had an immune response to cat, predominantly of the IgG1 subclass. The levels of cat-specific IgG1 and IgG4, but not IgE, were high in children currently keeping a cat. Children with asthma had increased levels of cat-specific IgE and IgG1, and children with a positive SPT to cat also had increased IgG4. The presence of IgG4 was not associated with asthma or sensitization, unless there was a simultaneous production of IgE. Twenty-five percent of the children had an immune response with only IgG4, and no IgE antibodies to cat. This group of children had the highest frequency of cat-keeping, but a similar prevalence of asthma and allergy as those with neither IgE nor IgG4 antibodies to cat. Conclusion Cat-keeping was associated with a modified Th2 response, producing IgG4 but not IgE antibodies. This immune response was not associated with an increased risk of asthma or allergy. However, the IgG4 antibodies did not directly mediate any protective effect. [source] Latex allergy: diagnosis and managementDERMATOLOGIC THERAPY, Issue 4 2004James S. Taylor ABSTRACT:, Latex allergy is an IgE-mediated immediate hypersensitivity response to natural rubber latex (NRL) protein with a variety of clinical signs ranging from contact urticaria, angioedema, asthma, and anaphylaxis. Major allergens include dipped latex products such as gloves and balloons. In highest risk for NRL allergy are patients with spina bifida, but health care workers and others who wear latex gloves are also at risk. NRL allergic patients may also react to fruits/foods, especially banana, kiwi, and avocado. Diagnosis is made by a positive latex RAST and/or skin prick test or challenge test to NRL. Allergen avoidance and substitution and the use of latex-safe devices including synthetic gloves (vinyl, synthetic polyisoprene, neoprene, nitrile, block polymers, or polyurethane) are essential for the affected patient. Accommodation in the workplace may include the use of powder-free, low-allergen NRL gloves or synthetic gloves. These preventive measures have significantly reduced the prevalence of reported reactions to NRL. Hyposensitization is not yet feasible. [source] EpiPen epidemic: Suggestions for rational prescribing in childhood food allergyJOURNAL OF PAEDIATRICS AND CHILD HEALTH, Issue 5 2003AS Kemp Abstract: There has been a marked increase in community concerns of the risk of food induced anaphylaxis in children and a consequent increase in the provision of the self or carer injectable epinephrine (EpiPen) (CSL Ltd, Parkville, Victoria, Australia)). The Australian use of EpiPens in children under 10 years has increased by 300% over 5 years with a crude rate of EpiPen provision of 1 per 544 Australian children aged under 10 years. However, the risk of a fatal reaction to food, particularly in preschool children, is remote (in Australia, an estimated one fatality in 30 years in the under 5-year-old population and two deaths in 10 years in the entire child population). It is therefore important to provide a perspective on the risk of death from food induced anaphylactic to parents and carers in view of the anxiety generated on this issue. The indications for provision of an EpiPen to children are not well defined. Six risk factors, which can be considered in evaluating the risk of a life-threatening reaction (age over 5 years; a history of respiratory tract involvement with the initial or subsequent reactions; a history of asthma requiring preventer medication; peanut or tree nut sensitivity; reactions induced by traces or small amounts of allergen; a strongly positive skin prick test) are proposed. It is suggested that the greater the number that are positive, the lower the threshold for provision of an EpiPen. In addition, instruction in EpiPen administration and the provision of both a clear and simple anaphylaxis action plan and a rational perspective on the remote risk of death is just as important as the provision of the device itself. [source] The BreathmobileÔ: A Novel Comprehensive School-Based Mobile Asthma Care Clinic for Urban Underprivileged ChildrenJOURNAL OF SCHOOL HEALTH, Issue 6 2006Otto Liao Many school-based programs have been funded to improve asthma management, especially for these "high-risk" inner-city children with asthma. Here we report the outcomes of the Children's Hospital of Orange County Breathmobile program, which is a school-based asthma program that combines the use of a mobile clinic and a pediatric asthma specialist. Baseline evaluations included a detailed history and physical, skin prick test to common allergens, spirometry measurements, and asthma severity classification based on the current National Asthma Education and Prevention Program guidelines. From April 2002 to September 2005, a total of 1321 children were evaluated for asthma. Analysis of the 1112 (84%) children diagnosed with asthma showed a population mean age of 7.8 years, 81% Latino ethnicity, and 73% with persistent disease. At baseline, only 24% of children with persistent asthma were on daily anti-inflammatory medications, which increased to 78% by the first follow-up visit. In the year prior to entry into the program, 64% had school absenteeism related to asthma (38% >10 days), 45% had emergency room (ER) visits (28% >1), and 19% had hospitalizations (9% >1). There was a significant reduction (p < .001) in the annual rates of ER visits, hospitalizations, and school absenteeism when comparing pre- and postentry into the program. These data suggest that a mobile asthma van clinic at the school site with an asthma specialist could be an effective model in reducing morbidity in the underserved child with asthma. Further studies are necessary to determine whether this model is applicable to other inner-city settings. (J Sch Health. 2006;76(6):313-319) [source] Impact of allergic rhinitis on asthma: effects on bronchial hyperreactivityALLERGY, Issue 3 2009I. Cirillo Background:, Remarkable relationship exists between upper and lower airways. Bronchial hyperreactivity (BHR) is a paramount feature of asthma and may be considered a strong risk factor for the onset of asthma in patients with allergic rhinitis. Objective:, This study is aimed at evaluating the presence of BHR in a large group of patients with moderate-severe persistent allergic rhinitis alone, and at investigating possible risk factors related to severe BHR. Methods:, Three hundred and forty-two patients with moderate-severe persistent allergic rhinitis were prospectively and consecutively evaluated. Clinical examination, skin prick test, spirometry and bronchial methacholine (MCH) test were performed in all patients. Results:, Twenty-two (6.4%) patients had severe BHR, 74 (21.6%) patients had mild BHR and 192 (56.2%) had borderline BHR; 54 (15.8%) patients had a negative MCH test. The logistic regression analysis evidenced that trees and house dust mites sensitization (ORAdj: 8.1), rhinitis duration > 5 years (ORAdj: 5.4) and FEV1 , 86% of predicted (ORAdj: 4.0) were significantly associated with severe BHR. The discriminative ability of this model is appreciably satisfactory, being the AUC = 0.90. Conclusion:, This study highlights the close link between upper and lower airways and the role of some risk factors, such as tree and mite sensitization, > 5-year duration, and , 86% FEV1 values, as risk factors for severe BHR in patients with moderate-severe persistent allergic rhinitis alone. Therefore, BHR is frequently present in patients with chronic rhinitis and should be suspected in the presence of defined risk factors. [source] The effect of multiple allergens on histamine release in vivo assessed by skin prick testALLERGY, Issue 11 2008G. Liccardi No abstract is available for this article. [source] Short communication: Analysis of CD4+ T-cell gene expression in allergic subjects using two different microarray platformsALLERGY, Issue 3 2008N. N. Hansel Background:, Allergic diseases are thought to involve dysregulated activation of T cells including CD4+ lymphocytes. T-cell activation results in changes in gene expression, but the optimal method to study gene expression profiles in T cells, and how this changes over time, are not known. Methods:, Circulating CD4+ T cells were obtained from subjects with atopic asthma, nonatopic asthma or nonallergic controls, and total mRNA was rapidly isolated. Atopy was defined as positive skin prick test to one of nine allergens. Gene expression was analyzed using hybridization and Affymetrix® oligonucleotide arrays (Hu133A and Hu133B chips, n = 84), or by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) with a pathway-targeted array (Human Th1,Th2,Th3 RT2 ProfilerTM PCR Array, Superarray, n = 16). Results:, Using Affymetrix arrays, it was difficult to discern a dominant allergy-associated profile because of heterogeneity in gene expression profiles. In contrast, a Th2-like signature was evident using RT-PCR arrays with increased expression of expected genes (e.g. IL-4, 5, 9, and 13, all P < 0.05) as well as unexpected gene transcripts (e.g. osteopontin). Gene expression profiles were relatively stable over time in circulating CD4+ T cells from two subjects using both platforms. Conclusions:, Unstimulated CD4+ T cells isolated from allergic subjects express a characteristic profile of genes when analyzed using RT-PCR based microarrays. [source] ImmunoCAPTM Phadiatop® Infant , a new blood test for detecting IgE sensitisation in children at 2 years of ageALLERGY, Issue 3 2006N. Ballardini Background:, Correct diagnosis of immunoglobulin E (IgE)-mediated disease is the prerequisite for secondary allergy prevention during early childhood. Objective:, To evaluate the diagnostic efficacy of a new blood test, Phadiatop® Infant, in detecting IgE sensitisation to food and inhalant allergens among children at 2 years of age. Methods:, Children (n = 239) were followed prospectively from birth to 2 years of age for the presence of IgE sensitisation and the development of atopic manifestations. Immunoglobulin E sensitisation was evaluated by skin prick test (SPT) and analysis of allergen-specific IgE antibodies in plasma to food and inhalant allergens. The children were classified into three groups: IgE-sensitised, non-IgE sensitised and inconclusive, depending on SPT and allergen-specific IgE results. Results:, Twenty-six (11%) of the children were classified as IgE-sensitised, 182 (76%) as non-IgE sensitised and 31 (13%) as inconclusive. Phadiatop Infant was positive in 50 (21%) of the children. Ten children (4%) with identified IgE antibodies against the selected food and inhalant allergens showed negative Phadiatop Infant. Three children showed positive Phadiatop Infant but were negative in the other tests performed. These results correspond to positive and negative predictive values for Phadiatop Infant of 89 and 99%, respectively. Children with clinical symptoms of atopic diseases had significantly increased levels for Phadiatop Infant (P < 0.01). Conclusion:, Phadiatop Infant appears to be a reliable alternative to SPT and the measurement of allergen-specific IgE antibodies in plasma for detecting clinically important IgE sensitisation among children at 2 years of age. [source] Occupational exposure of Brazilian neonatal intensive care workers to latex antigensALLERGY, Issue 1 2004R. A. M. Lopes Background:, Frequent exposure to latex causes various reactions such as respiratory symptoms and anaphylactic shock. In these cases, proteins found in natural latex are responsible for the serious systemic antilatex-mediated immediate hypersensitive reactions. Methods:, Cross-sectional descriptive survey focusing on 96 Brazilian health care workers (HCW) in the neonatal intensive care unit at CAISM, State University of Campinas UNICAMP, Brazil. All subjects were interviewed, donated blood samples for the latex-specific immunoglobulin E measurement and underwent the skin prick test (SPT) with an antigen extracted from latex gloves. Results:, The prevalence of latex positive SPT was 8%. There were eight SPT positive and only one serologic test was in agreement with the SPT. Overall, there was evidence of an association between the latex SPT and reported eczema (P = 0.01); food allergy (P = 0.009) with pineapple (P = 0.01). Conclusions:, These results suggest that the identification of reactions of immediate hypersensitivity mediated by antilatex antibodies in HCW should be encouraged to prevent occupational exposure to latex products. [source] Airborne viable fungi in Riyadh and allergenic response of their extractsMYCOSES, Issue 9-10 2001A. S. Al-Suwaini Luftbürtige Pilze; Allergenität; Antigenität; Prick-Test; Saudi-Arabien. Summary. The allergenicity and antigenicity of various airborne fungi isolated from the atmosphere of Riyadh were studied. Protein nitrogen contents were estimated and found to range from 0.9 mg ml,1 for Cladosporium to 2.1 mg ml,1 for Aspergillus extracts. Sodium dodecyl sulphate,polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis analysis for those extracts exhibited a number of protein bands of higher molecular weight between 13 and 80 kDa for Alternaria, Ulocladium, Penicillium, Aspergillus and Cladosporium. Extracts in both aqueous and lyophilized forms were sterilized and tested for diagnostic skin prick test in 100 consecutive patients having bronchial asthma and allergic rhinitis. Overall, 13% of patients reacted positively to fungal extracts, revealing allergic sensitization to these fungi. These findings necessitate further investigation as regards the purification and characterization of these local extracts for better diagnostic use in patients in Saudi Arabia. Zusammenfassung. Es wurde die Allergenität und Antigenität mehrerer luftbürtiger Pilze untersucht, die aus der Luft von Riad isoliert worden waren. Hierzu wurden Pilzextrakte hergestellt, deren Proteinstickstoffgehalt zwischen 0.9 mg ml,1 bei Cladosporium und 2.1 mg ml,1 bei Aspergillus lag. Die SDS,PAGE-Analyse zeigte eine Anzahl von Proteinbanden höheren Molekulargewichts zwischen 13 und 80 kDa für Alternaria, Ulocladium, Penicillium, Aspergillus und Cladosporium. Die sowohl wässrigen wie lyophilisierten Extrakte wurden sterilisiert und an 100 unausgewählten Patienten mit Bronchialasthma und allergischer Rhinitis im Pricktest getestet. Ingesamt 13% der Patienten reagierten auf die Extrakte positiv, was für eine allergische Sensibilisierung gegen diese Pilze spricht. [source] Serological and clinical characteristics of children with peanut sensitization in an Asian communityPEDIATRIC ALLERGY AND IMMUNOLOGY, Issue 2p2 2010Wen Chin Chiang Chiang WC, Pons L, Kidon MI, Liew WK, Goh A, Wesley Burks A. Serological and clinical characteristics of children with peanut sensitization in an Asian community. Pediatr Allergy Immunol 2010: 21: e429,e438. © 2009 John Wiley & Sons A/S In the past two decades, peanut allergy prevalence has increased in the West but has been perceived as having remained low in Asia. To review the clinical presentation of Asian children with peanut hypersensitivity and measure their IgE responses to major peanut allergens. We enrolled 31 children presenting with various allergies and a positive skin prick test to peanut from the Children's hospital outpatient allergy clinic in Singapore. A detailed questionnaire was completed by parents. The children's serum IgE specific to native Ara h 1, native Ara h 2, and recombinant Ara h 3 were detected using ELISA. Of the 31 patients, 19 had previously documented reactions to peanuts, while 12 had no previous clinical reaction. Most, 89.5% (17/19) of first reactions featured skin changes (urticaria, erythema, angioedema), but only 36.8% (7/19) involved skin symptoms alone. Respiratory symptoms and GI symptoms occurred in 42.1% and 26.3% of patients respectively and did not occur as the sole manifestation of reaction. The most common GI manifestation was emesis, present in 26.3% (5/19) of subjects. Two children experienced impaired consciousness with systemic, anaphylactic events. Although most sought treatment for their first peanut reaction only one patient received epinephrine. Half of our patients reported a subsequent accidental ingestion after the diagnosis of peanut allergy, with a median time from diagnosis to first accidental ingestion of 4 months and a reported increased severity of reaction in approximately half of the repeat exposures. Eighty-seven percent of children had specific IgE directed against at least one of the major peanut allergens. Among all patients, 87.1% had IgE specific to both Ara h 1 and Ara h 2 and 54.8% to rAra h 3. Asian children with peanut sensitization have clinically similar presentations and respond to the same major allergenic proteins as their Western counterparts. The perceived differences between the populations in this context do not stem from divergent clinical or immunological responses. [source] Safety and efficacy of a new extensively hydrolyzed formula for infants with cow's milk protein allergyPEDIATRIC ALLERGY AND IMMUNOLOGY, Issue 4 2008B. Niggemann Cow's milk protein allergy (CMPA) is best treated by complete elimination of cow's milk from the diet. For infants with CMPA who cannot be breast-fed, formulas based on extensively hydrolyzed proteins or on amino acids are the preferred substitutes for cow's milk-based formulas. In this study, we compared the tolerance and growth of infants with CMPA who were fed a new extensively hydrolyzed formula containing lactose (eHF) with those who were fed an amino acid formula (AAF). This was a prospective, multi-center, randomized, reference-controlled study. Seventy-seven infants <12 months old with suspected CMPA were enrolled. In 66 of these, CMPA was confirmed by oral challenge in a double-blind, placebo-controlled food challenge (DBPCFC) or by a medical history of severe allergic reaction to cow's milk and a positive skin prick test. These infants were then tested for their reaction to eHF and AAF in a DBPCFC. All infants tolerated both formulas and were randomized to receive either eHF (n = 34) or AAF (n = 32) for 180 days. Growth (weight, length, and head circumference) and tolerance [skin, gastro-intestinal, and respiratory tract symptoms of allergy] were evaluated after 30, 60, 90, and 180 days. There were no significant differences between the two groups in any of the growth measurements. Length and head circumference were similar to Euro-growth standards, but weight was slightly lower. Gastro-intestinal and respiratory tract symptoms of allergy were also similar in the two groups. However, whereas SCORAD scores for atopic dermatitis remained constant throughout the study in infants-fed eHF, there was a slight decrease in those fed AAF. Infants-fed eHF had significantly fewer incidents of vomiting than infants-fed AAF and a significantly higher frequency of soft stools. The new eHF is safe and well tolerated in infants diagnosed with CMPA. [source] Comparison of ADVIA Centaur® and Pharmacia UniCAP® tests in the diagnosis of food allergy in children with atopic dermatitisPEDIATRIC ALLERGY AND IMMUNOLOGY, Issue 7 2007Cécile Contin-Bordes In a study comprising 63 children diagnosed with atopic dermatitis, the results of the ADVIA Centaur system was compared with the results obtained with the Pharmacia UniCAP100 system, which has been widely considered as a reference method for seric specific IgE (sIgE) measurements. The individual immunization against the most common food allergens [egg (f1), cow milk (f2), cod (f3), wheat (f4), peanut (f13) and soy bean (f14)] was determined by in vitro serum IgE testing and skin prick test (SPT). The comparison of the sIgE titers revealed a good concordance between the Centaur and the UniCAP tests for f1, f3, and f13 (94 %, 91 %, and 96 % respectively). However, the concordance was lower for f2, f4, and f14 (76 %, 77 %, and 77 % respectively) because of discrepancies between the two techniques. When compared with SPT and clinical diagnosis, on the 40 discordant cases found between the Centaur and the UniCAP, the Centaur showed concordance with the patients food reaction and SPT in 34/40 cases, and UniCAP in only 6/40 cases. Accordingly, the Centaur test displayed a statistically significantly better performance on specificity and concordance with SPT for f2, f4, and f14 (concordance/specificity = 70%/71%, 76%/75% and 90%/88% respectively), than the CAP test (49%/54%, 51%/52% and 67%/65% respectively). [source] Increase in the prevalence of rhinitis among Danish children from 1986 to 2001PEDIATRIC ALLERGY AND IMMUNOLOGY, Issue 2 2007Kåre Håkansson In recent decades, there has been a worldwide increase in the prevalence of atopic diseases. The aim of this study was to investigate whether there has been a change in the prevalence of rhinitis among children in Denmark from 1986 to 2001. We compared data from two random population-based samples of Danish children, aged 7,17 yr, who were examined in 1986 (n = 527) and 2001 (n = 480) using similar designs. Symptoms of rhinitis, skin test reactivity, and bronchial responsiveness to inhaled histamine were assessed. The prevalence of rhinitis increased from 11.8% in 1986 to 23.3% in 2001 (p < 0.001). The increase was most pronounced among subjects who suffered from non-allergic rhinitis (p < 0.001), and among subjects with severe symptoms (p < 0.001). The prevalence of asymptomatic positive skin prick test (SPT) decreased substantially (p < 0.001). A history of asthma and parental atopic disease were strong predictors of non-allergic rhinitis, whereas a history of asthma, parental atopic disease, bronchial hyperresponsiveness, eczema, and age at examination were statistically significant predictors of allergic rhinitis. The prevalence of non-allergic rhinitis among Danish children has increased substantially from 1986 to 2001. Furthermore, in general more severe symptoms of rhinitis were observed in 2001 compared with 1986. These results underline the importance of using objective measurements such as skin test reactivity when estimating time trends in the prevalence of allergic airways disease, as clinical interviews alone can be misleading. [source] Soluble CD14 at 2 yr of age: Gender-related effects of tobacco smoke exposure, recurrent infections and atopic diseasesPEDIATRIC ALLERGY AND IMMUNOLOGY, Issue 4 2006K. C. Lødrup Carlsen The endotoxin receptor soluble CD14 (sCD14) has been implicated in the ,hygiene hypothesis' suggesting reduced allergic sensitization with bacterial stimulation. However, the relationship between early life sCD14 and allergic diseases is conflicting. We aimed to investigate whether possible risk factors for allergic diseases were associated with sCD14 levels at 2 yr of age. In the nested case,control study of the birth cohort studies ,Environment and Childhood Asthma study in Oslo' 411 children selected with recurrent bronchial obstruction (rBO) (n = 241) and no bronchial obstruction (n = 170) by 2 yr were investigated with skin prick test and structured parental interview at age 2 yr. Exposure to tobacco smoke, pets and infections was recorded semi-annually by questionnaires (0,2 yr). The sCD14 was analysed from frozen, stored serum by ELISA technique. Regression analyses were performed in all subjects with complete data (n = 406, 180 girls), and in girls and in boys separately. Mean sCD14 (ng/ml) was significantly higher among girls 2035 (1973,2096) vs. 1947 (1890,2004) (boys). The sCD14 was significantly reduced among girls exposed to antenatal maternal smoking and with parental asthma, after adjusting for age, parental rhino-conjunctivitis, pet keeping and childhood infections. Recurrent otitis media (OM) increased and common colds significantly decreased sCD14 levels in girls. Boys with atopic dermatitis and rBO had reduced sCD14. Pet exposure was not significantly associated with sCD14. We report novel gender-related effects of sCD14 in early life and suggest that gender, tobacco smoke exposure, age and middle ear disease in particular should be accounted for when assessing the role of sCD14 in childhood allergic diseases. [source] Bimodal skin reactivity to histamine in atopic children in Singapore: influence of specific sensitizationsPEDIATRIC ALLERGY AND IMMUNOLOGY, Issue 6 2004Mona Iancovici Kidon Histamine skin prick test (SPT) is used as the ,golden standard' for positive control in in vivo immediate type hypersensitivity testing. The skin reactivity to histamine can, however, be modulated by a bevy of extraneous factors. We aimed to define whether histamine skin reactivity in atopic children in Singapore is influenced by age, ethnic origin, gender, environmental exposure or specific sensitization patterns. A retrospective analysis of children, with specific aeroallergen sensitization (as measured by at least one allergen-specific SPT with a wheal size >3 mm compared with the negative control) from the outpatient speciality clinic of the KK Children's Hospital, during 06/2002,06/2003. A total of 315 patients were included, 235 (75%) were males, 252 (80%) were Chinese, age mean was 7.7 yr (range: 2,15). Patients were referred to the SPT with a diagnosis of one or more of: allergic rhinitis 287 (91%), asthma 112 (36%) or atopic dermatitis 60 (19%). The mean histamine response showed a bimodal distribution, independent of age, ethnic origin, gender or phenotypical expression of allergic disease. Histamine skin reactivity was higher in atopic patients with polysensitization (mean 5.0 mm vs. 2.9 mm in monosensitized patients, p < 0.001), and in patients with mould sensitization (mean 5.1 mm vs. 3.3 mm in patient not sensitized to moulds, p < 0.001). The presence of passive smoking increased the likelihood of a diminished histamine skin response. Histamine skin response data strongly suggested the presence of two heterogeneous subpopulations. Children with polysensitization and mould sensitization were more likely to show a large significant histamine response, whereas children with passive smoke exposure, showed a diminished skin reactivity to histamine. [source] Antiallergic and antihistaminic effect of two extracts of Capparis spinosa L. flowering budsPHYTOTHERAPY RESEARCH, Issue 1 2005Domenico Trombetta Abstract The antiallergic properties of two lyophilized extracts obtained from Capparis spinosa L. flowering buds (capers) by methanol extraction, carried out at room temperature (CAP-C) or with heating at 60 °C (CAP-H), were investigated. The protective effects of CAP-H and CAP-C, orally administered (14.28 mg[sol ]kg), were evaluated against Oleaceae antigen challenge-induced and histamine-induced bronchospasm in anaesthetized guinea-pigs. Furthermore, the histamine skin prick test was performed on humans, applying a gel formulation containing 2% CAP-C (the only extract able to protect against histamine-induced bronchospasm) on the skin for 1 h before histamine application and monitoring the erythema by reflectance spectrophotometry. The CAP-H showed a good protective effect against the bronchospasm induced by antigen challenge in sensitized guinea-pigs; conversely, a significant decrease in the responsiveness to histamine was seen only in CAP-C pretreated animals. Finally, the CAP-C gel formulation possessed a marked inhibitory effect (46.07%) against histamine-induced skin erythema. These two caper extracts displayed marked antiallergic effectiveness; however, the protective effect of CAP-H was very likely due to an indirect mechanism (for example, inhibition of mediator release from mast cells or production of arachidonic acid metabolites); conversely, CAP-C is endowed with direct antihistaminic properties. The different mechanisms of action of CAP-H and CAP-C may be related to a difference in the extraction procedure and, thus, in their qualitative[sol ]quantitative chemical profile. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source] Relationship Between Rhinitis Duration and Response to Nasal Decongestion Test,THE LARYNGOSCOPE, Issue 7 2008Giorgio Ciprandi MD Abstract Objectives/Hypothesis: Nasal obstruction depends on allergic inflammation. Decongestion tests evaluate the reversibility of nasal airflow limitation. It has been previously reported that duration of persistent allergic rhinitis (PER) may involve important functional consequences. The purpose of the study was to evaluate the impact of the duration of rhinitis on the response to nasal decongestion test in a cohort of patients with PER. Methods: A total of 312 patients with moderate-severe PER were prospectively and consecutively evaluated: 234 males and 78 females, mean age 23.6 years. A detailed clinical history was taken and complete physical examination, nasal endoscopy, skin prick test, rhinomanometry, and nasal decongestion test were performed for all patients. Results: A strong inverse correlation was observed (Pearson's r = ,0.81) between rhinitis duration (years) and posttest percentage change of nasal airflow values. Conclusions: The duration of PER may induce a progressive impairment of the response to nasal decongestion test. [source] Persistent Allergic Rhinitis Includes Different Pathophysiologic TypesTHE LARYNGOSCOPE, Issue 3 2008Giorgio Ciprandi MD Abstract Background: Allergy rhinitis is typically classified as seasonal allergy rhinitis (SAR) and perennial allergy rhinitis (PAR). More recently, the Allergic Rhinitis and its Impact on Asthma document proposed the intermittent (ITR) and persistent forms (PER). However, it has been previously reported that each single allergen may induce different clinical and pathophysiologic features. Objective: The aim of the study was to test the hypothesis that the type of causal allergen might characterize pathophysiologic differences in a cohort of patients with PER. Methods: Three hundred nineteen patients, sailors of the Italian Navy, with moderate-severe PER were prospectively and consecutively evaluated with clinical evaluation, skin prick test, rhinomanometry, and nasal decongestion test. Results: Patients with pollen allergy showed significantly more severe symptoms, lower nasal airflow, and higher response to decongestion test than patients with allergy to perennial allergens (P < .0001). Conclusion: This study provides evidence that patients with PER may show different pathophysiologic patterns depending on the type of causal allergen. [source] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||