Atopic asthma caused by Candida albicans acid protease: case reports

Two cases of atopic asthma caused by acid protease produced by Candida albicans are reported. Both patients had high levels of serum IgE antibodies against the acid protease and showed positive conjunctival and immediate bronchial responses when challenged with the protease. Significant histamine release was detected in both patients when their peripheral leukocytes were challenged with the protease antigen. These findings clearly showed that C. albicans acid protease is the causative allergen of atopic asthma.