Effect of immunotherapy in allergic bronchial asthma.

A total of 28 patients affected with bronchial asthma were given immunotherapy in the allergy clinic of King Fahd Hospital of the University. Of the 28 patients, 12 were females and 16 were males. IgE titers over 180 IU, skin tests showed positive reactions to many allergens mainly inhalant. Treatment with subcutaneous injections of immunotherapy was effective.

The prevalence of allergic disorders in Saudi Arabia: preliminary analysis based on surveying 300 individuals.

Prospective surveying of 300 (150 males, and 150 females) randomly selected individuals was carried out to study the pattern and prevalence of allergic disorders in the community. The mean age was 32.8 and 26.8 years for males and females, respectively. A total of 28 participants (17 males, and 11 females) (9.3%) were found to have personal history of allergic disorders. No significant sex difference was noted in the distributions of those allergies, except for more male predominance for allergic rhinitis. The latter was seen in 7 males and only one female (p = 0.033). Prevalence of bronchial asthma was rather rare as it was identified in only 2 individuals (0.7%). More males (16) than females (2) admitted a positive family history of allergy (P = 0.0005). Most of the familial history of allergic disorders was due to bronchial asthma (11 relatives). We conclude that allergic disorders are common in our local community. However, for more detailed assessment, a larger sample that includes various age distributions and different socioeconomic classes should be screened.

Clinical presentation of systemic lupus erythematosus in Saudi patients.

A study conducted to assess the incidence and clinical expression of systemic lupus erythematosus in the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia revealed that the disease is uncommon in this region, only 32 cases being recorded in five years. However, the clinical manifestations of the disease are similar to those observed elsewhere.