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Immediate type hypersensitivity to common moulds. Comparison of different diagnostic materials
Abstract:
Extracts of five common atmospheric moulds (Alternaria, Aspergillus, Cladosporium, Mucor and Penicillium) obtained from different manufacturers were compared by means of skin prick testing and, partly, with the radioallergosorbent test. Considerable differences were found between the extracts with respect to positive tests found in mould-allergic individuals and controls. A purified allergen preparation of Cladosporium herbarum was superior to the crude allergen extracts. The results suggest that the allergen contents of the extract differed both with respect to total allergenic potency and to allergenic composition.
Insights
Different mold extracts showed significant variations in allergy testing results. Purified Cladosporium herbarum allergen was more effective than crude extracts, indicating differences in mold allergen potency and composition.
Area of Science:
- Environmental science
- Immunology
- Allergology
Background:
- Atmospheric molds are common allergens.
- Commercial mold extracts vary in composition.
- Standardization of mold allergen extracts is needed for accurate diagnosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the diagnostic efficacy of different commercial mold extracts.
- To evaluate the allergenic potency and composition of common atmospheric molds.
- To assess the performance of a purified Cladosporium herbarum allergen.
Main Methods:
- Skin prick testing (SPT) was performed on mold-allergic individuals and controls.
- Radioallergosorbent testing (RAST) was used for some comparisons.
- Five common mold extracts (Alternaria, Aspergillus, Cladosporium, Mucor, Penicillium) from various manufacturers were tested.
Main Results:
- Significant differences were observed in SPT results between different mold extracts.
- A purified Cladosporium herbarum allergen preparation demonstrated superior reactivity compared to crude extracts.
- Variability in allergenic potency and composition among commercial mold extracts was evident.
Conclusions:
- Commercial mold extracts exhibit considerable differences in allergenic content.
- Purified allergen preparations may offer improved diagnostic accuracy.
- Further standardization of mold allergen extracts is recommended for reliable allergy diagnosis.