[Immunological abnormalities in atopic dermatitis (author's transl)]

The humoral immunological abnormalities in atopic dermatitis (AD) are mainly represented by the increase of IgE. But high IgE levels are inconstant and non specific for AD. They may remain elevated during remission and their role in the pathogenesis is unclear. The origin of the stimulation of IgE-producing B lymphocytes could be a transcient deficiency of IgA in newborns or a defect of the T cell control. A defect of cell-mediated immunity has been clearly demonstrated by numerous in vitro studies indicating low percentages of E rosettes and low stimulation by mitogens. This defect could be a T suppressor cell defect. The correlations of these immunological abnormalities with the Sczentivanyi's theory as well as the role of immuno-pharmacological disturbances in the clinical picture and the possible new treatments of AD are discussed.