The Study of IgE in the Diagnosis of Allergic Disorders in an Otolaryngology Practice

Abstract

Within months after the identification of IgE as the reaginic antibody and principal trigger of immediate hypersensitivity reactions, several radioimmunoassays were developed for its detection in serum. Observations and results obtained with the use of two commercially available in vitro assays in the screening diagnosis of inhalant allergic disease are reported. Over 80% of suspected atopic patients tested had detectable specific IgE to at least two allergens. Both total and specific IgE determinations served useful roles in the recognition of clinically significant allergic disease. Results obtained with these procedures correlate well with information previously obtained only by skin test endpoint titration.