Comparative evaluation of the behring AlaSTAT and pharmacia CAP RAST tests for the detection of latex IgE.

The diagnostic of latex allergy is-usually based on prick tests using commercial extracts, thin latex material (surgical gloves) or latex emulsion. The absence of standardisation of these extracts makes in vitro measurement of latex IgE essential. The aim of this study is to compare two methods of IgE determination: AlaSTAT (Behring) and CAP PAST (Pharmacia). Selected patients were divided to two groups. a control group (I) and a group of subjects suspected for latex allergy (II). The results were well correlated in group (I). In group (II), the correlation was correct for 11 out of 20 cases. In 7 cases the results were one class higher with AlaSTAT. Fdr 2 subjects; the disparity was greater than 2 classes. Prick tests are in favor of a real latex allergy and the western blots revealed the presence of latex IgE. In conclusion, the two tests-are well correlated, but AlaSTAT provides a better sensitivity.