[Skin tests, total IgE and venom specific IgE and IgG4 in serum of bee-keepers]

In 14 occupationally active bee-keepers, who tolerated stinging well, two diagnostic tests have been performed: 1. skin test at the venom concentration of 10(-3) g/l, 2. both total and venom specific IgE and IgG4 assessments. The study group consisted of 13 male and 1 female aged 34-56 (mean age 44.3). 7 out of 14 bee-keepers (50%) had positive skin tests; mean size being mean = 3.57 +/- 4.07 mm. None of the subjects showed increased total IgE levels, but 71.4% showed bee venom specific IgE (mean mean 1.64 +/- 1.34 FAST). Specific bee venom IgG4 occurred in 13 out 14 individuals (92.8%). Their average serum level was mean 21.74 +/- 17.16 IU/ml.