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Atopy and IgE in patients with leprosy
D L Smith1, S L Bahna, T P Gillis
1Department of Pediatrics, Louisiana State University Medical Center, New Orleans.
The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology
|April 1, 1990
Summary
Leprosy patients showed higher total immunoglobulin E (IgE) levels but similar rates of atopic disease compared to controls. Specific IgE antibodies to Mycobacterium leprae were not detected, suggesting a nonspecific IgE increase in leprosy.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Infectious Diseases
- Dermatology
Background:
- Atopic diseases, characterized by hypersensitivity reactions, are common globally.
- Leprosy, a chronic infectious disease, affects the skin and peripheral nerves.
- The relationship between leprosy and atopic status requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the atopic status of patients with leprosy.
- To compare serum total and specific immunoglobulin E (IgE) levels between leprosy patients and controls.
- To determine the presence of IgE antibodies to Mycobacterium leprae.
Main Methods:
- Assessed atopic status via medical history, physical examination, and allergy testing (skin tests, RAST).
- Measured serum total IgE levels.
- Utilized RAST and immunoblotting to detect specific IgE to Mycobacterium leprae.
Main Results:
- No significant difference in atopic disease prevalence between leprosy patients (n=28) and controls (n=49).
- Significantly higher total IgE levels in leprosy patients compared to controls, irrespective of atopy.
- No significant IgE antibodies to Mycobacterium leprae detected.
Conclusions:
- Leprosy is associated with elevated total IgE levels.
- Clinical atopy is not more prevalent in leprosy patients than in the general population.
- The increase in total IgE in leprosy patients appears to be nonspecific.