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Basophil Activation Test for Investigation of IgE-Mediated Mechanisms in Drug Hypersensitivity
Published on: September 16, 2011
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Hypersensitivity reactions to biological drugs
Journal of Investigational Allergology & Clinical Immunology
|September 16, 2014
Summary
Biological drugs, used to treat various diseases, can cause hypersensitivity reactions. This review covers these reactions and diagnostic tests for biological drug hypersensitivity.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Pharmacology
- Biotechnology
Background:
- Biological drugs, including monoclonal antibodies, fusion proteins, and cytokines, modulate the immune system.
- Increased use of biological drugs has led to more reported adverse reactions, particularly postmarketing.
- Hypersensitivity reactions, classified as beta-type, encompass infusion and injection site reactions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review hypersensitivity reactions associated with biological drugs.
- To discuss the diagnostic approaches for these hypersensitivity reactions.
Main Methods:
- Review of literature on biological drugs and hypersensitivity.
- Discussion of diagnostic studies including skin tests and in vitro tests (specific IgE, basophil activation test).
Main Results:
- Hypersensitivity reactions to biological drugs involve immune mechanisms (IgE, IgG, T cells) and present with varied symptoms.
- Current diagnostic tests lack standardization and validation for sensitivity and specificity.
- Desensitization protocols show success in managing hypersensitivity to certain biological drugs.
Conclusions:
- Hypersensitivity reactions are a significant concern with biological drug therapy.
- Further standardization and validation of diagnostic tests are needed.
- Desensitization offers a potential management strategy for hypersensitivity reactions.
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