Clinical laboratory methods for the assessment and management of human allergic diseases

The biologic role and clinical relevance of IgE (reaginic) antibodies in immediate-hypersensitivity (allergic) reactions are reviewed, and methods useful in the laboratory diagnosis and management of human allergic diseases are discussed. Quantitative immunoassays for total and allergen-specific IgE antibodies are examined within the context of their use in diagnosis. The radioallergosorbent test inhibition assay and specific IgG antibody immunoassays are described as useful methods in the planning and monitoring of immunotherapy.