[IgE deficiency: a forgotten disease?]

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Allergy and Clinical Immunology

Context:

• Selective IgE deficiency is a rare condition defined by serum IgE levels below 5 UI/mL.
• While often asymptomatic, it can be linked to recurrent respiratory infections, fatigue, and musculoskeletal issues.

Purpose:

• To describe the clinical evolution and treatment outcomes in patients diagnosed with selective IgE deficiency.
• To analyze patient data including atopy history, concurrent diseases, allergic manifestations, and treatment responses.

Summary:

• Eleven patients (5 female, 6 male; ages 16 months to 10 years) with serum IgE < 5 UI/mL and normal immunoglobulin levels (except one with IgA deficiency) were studied.
• Treatments ranged from prophylactic antibiotics to intravenous immunoglobulin therapy.
• Diagnosis was established based on low serum IgE and recurrent respiratory infections.

Impact:

• Highlights the association between low serum IgE and recurrent respiratory infections, aiding in diagnostic criteria.
• Underscores the need for more extensive clinical research to precisely define and manage selective IgE deficiency.
• Provides insights into treatment approaches for this rare immunodeficiency.