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Epidemiology of insect venom sensitivity
D B Golden1, D G Marsh, A Kagey-Sobotka
1Division of Clinical Immunology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Good Samaritan Hospital, Baltimore, MD 21239.
JAMA
|July 14, 1989
Summary
Systemic allergic reactions to insect stings affect 3.3% of adults, while 26.5% show venom sensitization. Most individuals with asymptomatic venom sensitivity and allergic reactions do not seek medical care.
Area of Science:
- Allergy and Immunology
- Epidemiology
Background:
- The prevalence of insect sting reactions and venom sensitization in adults remains largely unknown.
- Previous studies have focused on atopic disease determinants, leaving a gap in understanding insect sting allergies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of systemic allergic sting reactions in a general adult population.
- To assess the prevalence of venom sensitization, including asymptomatic cases, using immunological tests.
Main Methods:
- A stratified random sample of 269 adults was evaluated.
- Systemic allergic sting reactions were recorded, and IgE antibodies to venom were assessed via skin tests and radioallergosorbent tests (RAST).
Main Results:
- The prevalence of systemic allergic sting reactions was 3.3%.
- 26.5% of subjects demonstrated IgE antibodies to venom (skin test or RAST).
- 15% of subjects without a history of sting reactions showed asymptomatic sensitization.
Conclusions:
- Both systemic allergic reactions and asymptomatic venom sensitization are common in adults.
- The majority of individuals affected by insect sting allergies do not seek medical attention.
- The clinical significance of asymptomatic venom sensitization requires further investigation.