[Usefulness of testing histamine release from isolated human basophils in anti-allergic and anti-asthmatic drug assessment]

Histamine release from isolated human basophils test was used to evaluate an activity of: histamine receptors H1 and H2 blockers, agonists of beta-receptors, calcium channel blocking agents, hydrocortisone, and disodium cromoglycate (Intal). The study involved 84 patients hospitalized for the bronchial asthma. Basophils were isolated with Day's technique modified by Shov and Norn. Histamine was measured with Shov's spectrofluorimetric technique. It was found that histamine release from isolated human basophils may be used in both evaluation of the mechanism of action and efficiency of drugs used in allergic diseases therapy.