Estimation of total and specific IgE and blood eosinophils in allergic rhinitis

Abstract EN

One hundred and fifty patients aged 12 to 60 years (28.1+9.7) diagnosed with allergic rhinitis and 150 apparently healthy age-matched controls were studied by screening and detailed tests for allergy.

The screening tests were the determination of serum and nasal IgE levels, peripheral blood eosinophil count and the Phadiatop test to detect allergy to mixtures of allergens.

The best screening test was found to be the Phadiatop which could be used with or without other tests.

Detailed tests were the radio-allergosorbent test (RAST) and skin test for the detection of allergy against panels of allergens.

These tests could be used following positive screening test(s).

The most prevalent allergy detected by RAST was against Bermuda grass Cynodon dactylon (g2) and by the skin test was against house dust.

A scheme for the laboratory diagnosis of allergic rhinitis is suggested.