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Basophil Activation Test for Investigation of IgE-Mediated Mechanisms in Drug Hypersensitivity
Published on: September 16, 2011
Patients with severe atopic dermatitis have activated circulating basophils
J M James1, A Kagey-Sobotka, H A Sampson
1Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD.
The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology
|June 1, 1993
Summary
Patients with severe atopic dermatitis exhibit activated basophils, showing increased histamine and leukotriene C4 release. These findings suggest basophil releasibility could serve as a biomarker for severe atopic dermatitis.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Dermatology
- Allergy Research
Background:
- Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a complex inflammatory skin condition.
- The role of basophils in AD pathogenesis requires further elucidation.
- Food allergy is a common comorbidity in AD patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of basophils in atopic dermatitis.
- To compare basophil releasibility in patients with varying AD severity.
- To assess basophil function in patients with food allergy and AD.
Main Methods:
- Patients were stratified into low (LCS) and high (HCS) clinical score groups.
- Basophil histamine and leukotriene C4 (LTC4) release were measured.
- Stimulation assays included anti-IgE, C5a, and deuterium oxide.
Main Results:
- HCS group basophils showed significantly higher histamine release upon stimulation.
- Spontaneous and stimulated LTC4 release was elevated in the HCS group.
- Increased basophil releasibility correlated with AD severity.
Conclusions:
- Patients with severe AD have activated circulating basophils.
- Elevated basophil releasibility, particularly in response to C5a, is observed.
- Basophil activation markers may indicate disease severity in AD.
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