Relationship between IgE and IgG antibodies in type I allergy

Serum samples of human patients with immediate type allergy were examined for both IgE (by radioallergosorbent test) and IgG (by enzyme immunoassay) antibodies to several of the common inhalant and food allergens. The results show a statistically significant correlation between the titers of anti-allergen antibodies of both isotypes. The data indicate that immune stimulation in atopic individuals is not restricted to the IgE isotype, but equally affects the IgG-producing antibody systems. The statistical relationship observed may either be due to common pathways in the production of both antibody classes in atopic people, or may be explained by preferential binding of allergens to circulating IgE-IgG immune complexes.