Immunoblot Test Differentiates Pollen Allergies Diagnoses

Specific immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies against inhalation allergens that commonly occur in Southern Europe can be detected and differentiated using a new multiparameter immunoblot test.

The test is based on defined partial allergens (DPA, allergen components) and the detailed profile identifies the precise allergy-causing proteins, distinguishing primary sensitizations from cross-reactions and thus aiding therapy decision-making.

The test is based on a unique combination of species-specific marker molecules, cross-reactive components and whole extracts, encompassing tree pollens (birch, olive, cypress, hazel, oak), grass pollens (timothy grass, wall pellitory) and the fungus Alternaria alternata. The native extracts provide a general screening for IgE antibodies against the respective pollen/fungus.

The multiparameter immunoblot EUROLINE DPA-Dx Pollen Southern Europe 1 test (EUROIMMUN AG, 23560 Luebeck, Germany) is a combination of the Southern European species-specific marker molecules together with common panallergens, such as PR-10 proteins and profilin, enables precise discrimination between a putative primary sensitization and a persistent cross reaction. Positive reactions with species-specific markers are an indication for specific immunotherapy. Positive reactions with panallergens on the other hand indicate cross-reactions. Cross-reactive molecules are prevalent among different types of plants, which often results in a high sensitization rate. An insufficient differentiation between primary sensitization and cross-reactions often results in a less effective desensitization during specific immunotherapy.

The test also includes a band of cross reactive carbohydrate determinants (CCD), which aids the differentiation of clinically relevant reactions from unspecific anti-CCD reactions and thus the interpretation of results. With this in-depth profile, true sensitizations can be reliably identified, enabling targeted selection of the most suitable specific immunotherapy and improved prognosis of the therapy success. The test is easy to perform and requires only a small sample volume. The high analytical and clinical value of the profile has been verified in an independent study. Automated processing and evaluation are available for the assay.