Evaluation of in vitro tests in the diagnosis of allergic diseases

The purpose of this study was to compare a new rapid dipstick ELISA test for measurement of allergen specific IgE [Quidel-Allergen Screen] [Q-AS] with the skin prick test [ST] and with another established ELISA test [Phadezym RAST]. Results of ST, Q-AS and RAST were compared in 53 patients Q-AS showed an overall sensitivity [SE] of 89%, specificity [SP] of 99% and accuracy of 98% as compared to ST, while in relation to RAST, SE was 98%, SP 99% and accuracy 99%. Total serum IgE levels by the new dipstick method [Quidel- Total IgE] and Phadezym-PRlST were also compared and showed an 83% agreement. These results indicate that the new dipstick method is reliable and can be used in screening of allergic patients

Immunological evaluation of a ribosomal vaccine in patients with recurrent bronchitis

To determine the effect of treatment with a ribosomal vaccine [Ribomunyl] on the different immune functions, 28 patients with recurrent bronchitis were studied before and after vaccine administration for 3 months. 19 placebo were included in this double blind study. Clinical evaluation of cases, delayed hypersensitivity skin testing, E-rosette test, leucocyte migration inhibition test and serum Ig levels were done before and at the end of treatment in patients and placebo. Clinical improvement in patients receiving the vaccine was linked to statistically significant increases in E-rosette%, migration inhibition and IgM, G and A levels together with normalization of IgE levels which were initially raised in 4 patients. The results indicated that the vaccine has potent immunotherapeutic effects and confirm its efficiency and the interest of its use in patients with recurrent bronchitis