Usefulness of specific IgE antibody tests: a progress report.
To enable the readers to recognize some of the history, problems, progress, interpretation, and present status of assays for specific IgE (s-IgE) antibodies. Peer-reviewed literature in the field. Key articles were selected by the author. Clinical and analytical studies have differed widely in their conclusions as to the performance of tests for s-IgE. Study conclusions depend on the testing method used, the allergen(s) studied, patient selection, and, most importantly, the standards used for comparison. Today, only a handful of the once commercially developed assays still exist, and some of these still do not compare well to an analytical ideal standard. However, with the extent of regulation and economic pressures, most of the surviving s-IgE tests are considerably improved over what had existed before them. Allergic diseases with multiple symptom patterns seem to be increasing in modern societies. Objective methods are needed to differentiate allergic origins from other mechanisms that cause similar symptoms. Accurate, quantitative, and objective methods for s-IgE measurement are now available and can be used effectively in clarifying allergic diagnoses when interpreted in conjunction with the clinical history.