Skin microdialysis: detection of in vivo histamine release in cutaneous allergic reactions

In vivo histamine release in cutaneous allergic reactions was chronologically examined using the skin microdialysis technique. Antigen challenge was made in ovalbumin-sensitized guinea pigs 1 h after the implantation of the microdialysis probe. A marked histamine release after intradermal injection of ovalbumin solution was observed in the early phase (up to 40 min). No isolated delayed histamine release was observed thereafter over 8 h. Also, in an atopic volunteer, a marked release of histamine after intradermal injection of mite extract was observed only in the early phase, although erythema and induration at the site of injection were continuously observed in the late phase (up to 4 h). These findings suggest that the skin microdialysis technique is a useful, simple technique for chronological determination of chemical mediators released in the allergic skin in vivo.