Molecularly defined allergens and their use in the diagnostics of allergic inflammation (atopic dermatitis)
Abstract
The determination of specific IgE antibodies is an integral part of the diagnostics of allergic diseases. Extracts from natural allergenic sources that contain a whole complex of both allergenic and non-allergenic components are commonly used.
The use of molecularly defined allergens is a next step in making the diagnosis more accurate, identifying causative allergens for allergen immunotherapy, and predicting severe reactions. Even the response to species-specific allergens or cross-reactive allergens can be distinguished with certain reservations.
The importance of specific IgE antibody analysis can be demonstrated on the most important food allergens, such as soy, cow milk, eggs, nuts, fish, crustaceans, molluscs and wheat. The level of specific IgE antibodies can be determined against individual molecular allergens or a multiplex technique can be used to obtain a comprehensive picture of the patient's sensitization.
Whereas these methods are used in the diagnostics of respiratory forms of allergic inflammation, anaphylaxis and food allergies, multiplex assays are not commonly used in the diagnostics of atopic dermatitis yet. The aim of the article is to inform about possibilities of laboratory diagnostics of molecular allergens in patients suffering from atopic dermatitis.