Mast cell versus basophil activation test in allergy: Current status

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Allergy Diagnostics

Background:

• The basophil activation test (BAT) has evolved into a potential diagnostic tool for IgE-dependent allergies.
• BAT faces technical challenges including non-response rates, timing sensitivity, and the need for fresh cells, limiting its widespread use.
• These limitations necessitate the development of alternative diagnostic methods like the mast cell activation test (MAT).

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and compare the advantages and disadvantages of BAT and MAT assays.
• To highlight the key differences in cellular sources used for BAT and MAT.
• To provide an overview of studies comparing BAT and MAT in diagnosing IgE-mediated food and drug allergies.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on basophil activation test (BAT) and mast cell activation test (MAT).
• Analysis of methodological differences, focusing on cellular sources (fresh basophils vs. generated/immortalized mast cells).
• Comparative assessment of diagnostic performance in IgE-mediated allergies.

Main Results:

• BAT is a valuable research tool but faces practical limitations for routine diagnostics.
• MAT utilizes different cellular materials (primary or cell lines) presenting distinct methodological approaches.
• Studies comparing BAT and MAT in allergy diagnostics show varying results, underscoring the need for further research.

Conclusions:

• BAT's limitations hinder its broader clinical application.
• MAT presents a promising alternative, though its diverse protocols require standardization.
• Further comparative studies are crucial to establish MAT's role in allergy diagnostics.