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Changes in non-specific immune responses induced by repeated delayed-type hypersensitivity skin testing with multiple
Journal of Clinical & Laboratory Immunology
|April 1, 1986
Summary
Repeated skin tests in healthy adults showed minor immune changes. Immune responsiveness indicators like delayed-type hypersensitivity (DTH) responses and polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNLs) were affected, but overall immune parameters remained largely stable.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Dermatology
- Clinical Research
Background:
- Delayed-type hypersensitivity (DTH) skin tests assess immune responsiveness in healthy individuals.
- Limited data exists on the impact of repeated multiple-antigen skin testing on non-specific immune parameters.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of repeated in vivo multiple-antigen skin testing on major non-specific immune response parameters.
- To evaluate changes in humoral and cell-mediated immune (CMI) responses following serial DTH skin tests.
Main Methods:
- A prospective study involving 22 healthy adult volunteers.
- Performed DTH skin tests 6 times at 4-week intervals over 28 weeks.
- Collected blood samples before each test for in vitro analysis of immune parameters.
Main Results:
- Sustained decreases in circulating polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNLs) and DTH responses in high responders.
- Increased serum IgM levels were observed.
- Transient increases in lymphocyte transformation with PHA; no significant changes in T, B, total lymphocytes, IgG, IgA, immune complexes, or blocking activity.
Conclusions:
- Repeated multiple-antigen skin testing in healthy adults induces minimal alterations in non-specific immune parameters.
- The study suggests a general stability of major immune functions despite serial skin testing.
- Observed changes were primarily decreased PMNLs, increased IgM, and reduced DTH in high responders.