SERUM IMMUNOGLOBULIN IgE IN A PEDIATRIC POPULATION: A RETROSPECTIVE ANALYSIS

Allergic sensitization is mediated by immunoglobulin E (IgE) and an increase of their total value is frequently used to complete a correct diagnosis of atopy. Serum IgE may be considered a typical biomarker for the allergic phenotype. The aim of this study was to evaluate total serum IgE, according to sensitizations and to find a cut off to discriminate between atopic and non-atopic subjects. Seven hundred and ninety-five patients were enrolled in this study. Serum levels of total IgE were measured by a fluorescence immunoassay (ImmunoCAP; ThermoFisher, Uppsala, Sweden) while specific IgE levels were measured by immunofluorometric assay (ImmunoCAP; ThermoFisher, Uppsala, Sweden). Both tests were expressed in kU/L, according to manufacturer’s instructions.