Prick Test Results and Total IgE Levels of Asthma Patients in A University Hospital

INTRODUCTION: Respiratory allergies are currently on the rise and affect all age groups. Aeroallergens play a major role in the pathogenesis of respiratory allergic diseases, especially in asthma and allergic rhinitis. Skin prick tests and specific blood tests can be used to safely ascertain allergen-specific IgE. When correctly implemented, aeroallergens such as house mites, pollens, and pet allergens can be determined. Skin tests are widely used to assess sensitivity to allergens due to their relatively easy application and safety.
The present study aims to delineate a regional allergen profile and compare this profile with that of other regions of the country. Furthermore, a comparison of total IgE elevation and prick test positivity was made to assess the sensitivity and specificity of total IgE levels.
METHODS: One hundred and sixty seven patients over 18 years of age that applied to either in- or out-patient clinics, that had a diagnosis of asthma according to the criteria of GINA(the Global Initiative for Asthma) and had been attack-free for at least one month were included. Forty one patients were male and 124 were female.
RESULTS: The prick test was positive in 18.7%.Pollens(41.9%), mite(22.5%) and cochroach were the most frequently detected allergens.Those that had serum IgE levels higher than the serum reference value had significantly higher rate of prick test positivity(p=0.029).
DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: The present study demonstrates inter-regional variability of allergen profiles and the direct correlation between total IgE elevation and prick test positivity.In cases where prick tests are not available, allergen sensitivity can be determined by total IgE levels.