QUANTITATIVE DETECTION OF TOTAL IGE AND SPECIFIC IGE BY IMMUNODOT REAGENT STRIPS - A NEW TECHNIQUE FOR DISEASE SCREENING

A new technique for determination of total IgE and specific IgE using immunodot nitrocellulose strips is presented. In the kit proposed for adults, the total IgE test gives reproducible results in the range of 10 to 400 IgE IU/ml while in the kit for investigation of cord blood, the range is 0,5 to 20 IgE IU/ml. The test shows excellent correlation with the Pharmacia PRIST test for the range of 10 to 400 IU/ml. In cord blood, the Immunodot test detects a larger number of sera over 1 IU/ml than the Ultra Low PRIST assay, due to the fact that the Immunodot test detects also IgE complexed with IgG anti-IgE antibodies transmitted to the newborn by the mother. The test developed for detection of specific IgE enables in a simple way to evaluate antibodies directed against various pollen allergens (e.g. grasses, rye, birch, mugwort, plantain) or indoor allergens (house dust mites, cat, dog, moulds). The results, expressed in Units (ERU/ml) or in classes show a good correlation with several other diagnostic serological methods, such as RAST, CAP, EAST and MATRIX. Although not automated, this technique enables to test easily and simultaneously 30-40 sera with minimal handling, economically and without costly investments for instruments.