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Larenas-Linnemann D. Biomarkers of Autoimmune Chronic Spontaneous Urticaria. Curr Allergy Asthma Rep 2023; 23:655-664. [PMID: 38064133 DOI: 10.1007/s11882-023-01117-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSEOF REVIEW Chronic spontaneous urticaria and chronic inducible urticaria (CSU/CindU) are caused by mast cell and basophil activation leading to degranulation and the release of histamine and several other mediators. Three kinds of factors can trigger mast cells in CSU: (1) activation of stimulating receptor(s) on the mast cell membrane, (2) upregulation of certain receptor(s), and (3) intracellular dysregulation in signaling with overexpression of the spleen tyrosine kinase (SYK) or reduced activation of the inhibitory Src homology 2 (SH2)-containing inositol phosphatases (SHIP)-related pathways. In CSU, two major endotypes exist based on the primary receptor activating mechanism: type I hypersensitivity (IgE-mediated, directed against auto-allergens) and type IIb (autoimmune, via IgG autoantibodies directed against IgE or the IgE-receptor). Their treatment responses vary. We discuss in vitro and in vivo biomarkers. RECENT FINDINGS Patients with auto-allergic CSU have clinical characteristics that can distinguish them partly from those with autoimmune CSU. Most importantly, their disease generally presents a less aggressive course, a better response to second generation (up-dosed) antihistamines and a good response to omalizumab, if necessary. Meanwhile, autoimmune CSU/CindU patients fare less well and often need immunosuppressive drugs. Biomarkers that might help endotype CSU/CindU patients and select the most appropriate treatment, dose, and duration, e.g., for autoallergic CSU, high total IgE and IgE against auto-allergens; for autoimmune CSU, low IgE, basopenia, and IgG against autoantigens like thyroid peroxidase and a positive autologous serum skin test (but sometimes also positive in autoallergy). Some biomarkers are easily accessible but of low specificity; others are highly specific but more futuristic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Désirée Larenas-Linnemann
- Centro de Excelencia en Asma y Alergia, Hospital Médica Sur, Puente de Piedra 150, T2-602 Colonia Toriello-Guerra, Delegación Tlalpan, 14050, Mexico City, Mexico.
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Asero R, Ferrer M, Kocaturk E, Maurer M. Chronic Spontaneous Urticaria: The Role and Relevance of Autoreactivity, Autoimmunity, and Autoallergy. THE JOURNAL OF ALLERGY AND CLINICAL IMMUNOLOGY. IN PRACTICE 2023; 11:2302-2308. [PMID: 36868473 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaip.2023.02.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2022] [Revised: 02/07/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/05/2023]
Abstract
Chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU) is a frequent and often severely disabling disease. A large number of studies were performed during the last 2 decades to clarify its pathogenesis. These studies shed light on the underlying autoimmune mechanisms of CSU pathogenesis and have led us to understand that different mechanisms may exist and, sometimes, coexist behind the same clinical presentation. The present article reviews the meaning of the terms autoreactivity, autoimmunity, and autoallergy, which have been variably used over the years to define different endotypes of the disease. Furthermore, we discuss the methods potentially able to lead us to the correct classification of CSU patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Riccardo Asero
- Allergy Department, San Carlo Clinic, Paderno Dugnano, Milan, Italy.
| | - Marta Ferrer
- Department of Allergy, University Clinic of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain; Network of Inlammatory Diseases (REI)-RD21/0002/0028, Madrid, Spain
| | - Emek Kocaturk
- Department of Dermatology, Koç University School of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey; Institute of Allergology, Charitè, Medical University of Berlin, Berlin, Germany; Fraunhofer Institute for Translational Medicine and Pharmacology ITMP, Allergology and Immunology, Berlin, Germany
| | - Marcus Maurer
- Institute of Allergology, Charitè, Medical University of Berlin, Berlin, Germany; Fraunhofer Institute for Translational Medicine and Pharmacology ITMP, Allergology and Immunology, Berlin, Germany
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Basophils priming in patients with chronic spontaneous urticaria. Postepy Dermatol Alergol 2021; 38:608-610. [PMID: 34658702 PMCID: PMC8501434 DOI: 10.5114/ada.2021.108910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2020] [Accepted: 03/12/2020] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Basophils are one of the main target cells in chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU). If cells present higher susceptibility to production and degranulation of pro-inflammatory factors, priming may be associated with severity of symptoms and therapy ineffectiveness. Aim To evaluate the spontaneous state of increase in basophil activity and their priming profile in patients with CSU. Material and methods The study sample included 22 patients diagnosed with CSU and 20 healthy volunteers without either allergy symptoms or CSU. In this study, we evaluate the presence of CD63 and CD63+CD203c at basophils surface by flow cytometry test (basophil activation test – BAT). Results We found that the percentage of activated basophils was higher in patients with CSU than in the control group and this difference was statistically significant (p < 0.05). Conclusions Our results indicate a greater degree of basophils activation in patients with CSU in remission than in the control group; it might be useful for identification of patients with predominance of the autoimmune variant of CSU and typing patients responding (responders) and refractory (non-responders) to treatment with antihistamines.
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Imamura S, Washio K, Mizuno M, Oda Y, Fukunaga A, Nishigori C. Activated steady status and distinctive FcεRI-mediated responsiveness in basophils of atopic dermatitis. Allergol Int 2021; 70:327-334. [PMID: 33674191 DOI: 10.1016/j.alit.2021.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2020] [Revised: 12/17/2020] [Accepted: 01/06/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although basophils are considered to play an important role for maintenance of type 2 inflammation in atopic dermatitis (AD), studies on basophils in AD patients are limited. Some studies have reported the activation status, including CD203c and CD63, of peripheral blood basophils in AD patients. METHODS We examined the features of circulating basophils in AD patients, assessed cell surface marker expressions and total serum IgE, and compared basophil responsiveness to stimulation between AD patients and healthy controls (HCs). In addition, the correlations among AD severity, laboratory factors, and features of basophils were examined. Blood samples from 38 AD patients and 21 HCs were analyzed. Basophil response markers CD203c and CD63, and expression of surface-bound IgE and FcεRI on basophils were measured. CD203c and CD63 expressions induced by stimulation with anti-IgE and anti-FcεRI antibodies were measured. Clinical/laboratory factors including total serum IgE were examined for correlations with these basophil parameters. RESULTS Baseline CD203c and CD63 expression on basophils were significantly higher in AD patients compared with HCs. The CD203c/CD63 response ratio to anti-FcεRI stimulation was higher than that to anti-IgE stimulation in AD patients, but not HCs. FcεRI expression on basophils was higher in AD patients than in HCs, although surface-bound IgE on basophils was equivalent. Total serum IgE had negative correlations with surface-bound IgE and CD63 responsiveness to anti-IgE stimulation. CONCLUSIONS Basophils were spontaneously activated under steady-state conditions in AD patients and responsiveness to anti-IgE stimulation was lower than in HCs. Despite high serum IgE and high basophil FcεRI expression, surface-bound IgE on basophils remained relatively low. Basophils might be suppressed or exhausted regarding FcεRI signaling via IgE in severe AD.
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Baumann K, Marcelino J, Skov P, Santos M, Wyroslak I, Scheffel J, Altrichter S, Woetmann A, Costa C, Maurer M. Autologous serum skin test reactions in chronic spontaneous urticaria differ from heterologous cell reactions. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol 2021; 35:1338-1345. [DOI: 10.1111/jdv.17131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2020] [Accepted: 01/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- K. Baumann
- Department of Dermatology and Allergy Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin Berlin Germany
- RefLab ApS Copenhagen Denmark
- LEO Foundation Skin Immunology Research Center, Department of Immunology and Microbiology University of Copenhagen Copenhagen Denmark
| | - J. Marcelino
- Immunoallergology Department, Hospital Santa Maria Centro Hospitalar Universitário Lisboa Norte E.P.E Lisbon Portugal
| | - P.S. Skov
- RefLab ApS Copenhagen Denmark
- Odense Research Center for Anaphylaxis (ORCA), Urticaria Center of Reference and Excellence (UCARE) Odense University Hospital Odense Denmark
| | - M.C.P. Santos
- Laboratory of Clinical Immunology Faculdade de Medicina, Instituto de Medicina Molecular Universidade de Lisboa Lisbon Portugal
| | - I. Wyroslak
- Department of Dermatology and Allergy Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin Berlin Germany
| | - J. Scheffel
- Department of Dermatology and Allergy Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin Berlin Germany
| | - S. Altrichter
- Department of Dermatology and Allergy Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin Berlin Germany
| | - A. Woetmann
- LEO Foundation Skin Immunology Research Center, Department of Immunology and Microbiology University of Copenhagen Copenhagen Denmark
| | - C. Costa
- Immunoallergology Department, Hospital Santa Maria Centro Hospitalar Universitário Lisboa Norte E.P.E Lisbon Portugal
| | - M. Maurer
- Department of Dermatology and Allergy Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin Berlin Germany
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Vas K, Altmayer A, Mihályi L, Garaczi E, Kinyó Á, Jakobicz E, Husz S, Kemény L, Bata-Csörgő Z. Successful Treatment of Autoimmune Urticaria with Low-Dose Prednisolone Therapy Administered for a Few Months: A Case Series of 42 Patients. Dermatology 2018; 233:419-424. [PMID: 29339636 DOI: 10.1159/000484085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2017] [Accepted: 09/25/2017] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU) is defined as symptoms of urticaria persisting for 6 weeks or more without obvious cause. Autologous serum skin test (ASST) positivity in patients with CSU is considered to be associated with autoimmune urticaria (AIU). METHODS In this retrospective study we retrieved the medical records of 1,073 urticaria patients seen at the Department of Dermatology and Allergology of Szeged University between January 2005 and February 2014. Forty-two patients (36 female and 6 male) met the study criteria by having CSU and giving positive results in the ASST. Our aim was to assess the clinical efficacy and safety of low-dose oral prednisolone therapy administered to patients with antihistamine-refractory ASST-positive CSU for a few months. Patients were given an initial dose (40 mg/day) of prednisolone until the complete resolution of the symptoms, usually 7-10 days, and then the dose was gradually decreased, as in other autoimmune diseases. RESULTS Prednisolone therapy lasted for an average of 3.6 months and a complete long-lasting response was achieved in 35 of 42 AIU patients (83.3%). The follow-up period was at least 36 months (3 years) for each AIU patient; the longest follow-up time was 139 months (11.5 years). None of the patients reported any considerable side effects. CONCLUSION Based on our results, we suggest that the use of this treatment could be an alternative for the treatment of AIU. Our present results also highlight the need for other therapies in a small percentage of AIU patients. Our results suggest that AIU represents a transient autoimmunity that can be successfully treated with low-dose steroid therapy administered for a few months.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krisztina Vas
- Department of Dermatology and Allergology, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
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Hajdu K, Irinyi B, Gyimesi E, Kapitány A, Dajnoki Z, Bata‐Csörgő Z, Kinyó Á, Kiss F, Gáspár K, Szegedi A. A simple, combined test can improve the diagnosis of autoimmune urticaria. Br J Dermatol 2017; 177:864-866. [DOI: 10.1111/bjd.15175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- K. Hajdu
- Division of Dermatological Allergology Faculty of Medicine University of Debrecen Debrecen Hungary
- Department of Dermatology Faculty of Medicine University of Debrecen Debrecen Hungary
| | - B. Irinyi
- Division of Dermatological Allergology Faculty of Medicine University of Debrecen Debrecen Hungary
- Department of Dermatology Faculty of Medicine University of Debrecen Debrecen Hungary
| | - E. Gyimesi
- Department of Laboratory Medicine Faculty of Medicine University of Debrecen Debrecen Hungary
| | - A. Kapitány
- Division of Dermatological Allergology Faculty of Medicine University of Debrecen Debrecen Hungary
- Department of Dermatology Faculty of Medicine University of Debrecen Debrecen Hungary
| | - Zs. Dajnoki
- Division of Dermatological Allergology Faculty of Medicine University of Debrecen Debrecen Hungary
- Department of Dermatology Faculty of Medicine University of Debrecen Debrecen Hungary
| | - Zs. Bata‐Csörgő
- Department of Dermatology and Allergology Albert Szent‐Györgyi Medical Center University of Szeged Szeged Hungary
| | - Á. Kinyó
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Oncodermatology University of Pécs Pécs Hungary
| | - F. Kiss
- Department of Dermatology Faculty of Medicine University of Debrecen Debrecen Hungary
- Center for Medical Education Cardiff University Cardiff U.K
| | - K. Gáspár
- Division of Dermatological Allergology Faculty of Medicine University of Debrecen Debrecen Hungary
- Department of Dermatology Faculty of Medicine University of Debrecen Debrecen Hungary
| | - A. Szegedi
- Division of Dermatological Allergology Faculty of Medicine University of Debrecen Debrecen Hungary
- Department of Dermatology Faculty of Medicine University of Debrecen Debrecen Hungary
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Kim Z, Choi BS, Kim JK, Won DI. Basophil markers for identification and activation in the indirect basophil activation test by flow cytometry for diagnosis of autoimmune urticaria. Ann Lab Med 2017; 36:28-35. [PMID: 26522756 PMCID: PMC4697340 DOI: 10.3343/alm.2016.36.1.28] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2015] [Revised: 07/02/2015] [Accepted: 08/27/2015] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The indirect basophil activation test using flow cytometry is a promising tool for autoimmune urticaria diagnosis. We aimed to identify better donor basophils (from atopic vs. non-atopic donors and interleukin-3 primed vs. unprimed basophils) and improve basophil identification and activation markers (eotaxin CC chemokine receptor-3 [CCR3] vs. CD123 and CD63 vs. CD203c). Methods Donor basophils were obtained from non-atopic and atopic group O donors. Positive control sera were artificially prepared to simulate autoimmune urticaria patients' sera. Patient sera were obtained from nine children with chronic urticaria. Assay sensitivity was compared among each variation by using positive control sera (n=21), applying cutoff values defined from negative control sera (n=20). Results For basophil identification, a combination of CCR3 and CD123 markers revealed a higher correlation with automated complete blood count (r=0.530) compared with that observed using CD123 (r=0.498) or CCR3 alone (r=0.195). Three activation markers on the atopic donor basophils attained 100% assay sensitivity: CD203c on unprimed basophils, CD63+CD203+ or CD63 alone on primed basophils; however, these markers on the non-atopic donor basophils attained lower assay sensitivity. Conclusions For basophil identification markers, a combination of CD123 and CCR3 is recommended, while CD123 alone may be used as an alternative. Donor basophils should be obtained from an atopic donor. For basophil activation markers, either CD203c alone on unprimed basophils or CD203c and CD63 on primed basophils are recommended, while CD63 alone on primed basophils may be used as an alternative.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zehwan Kim
- Department of Clinical Pathology, Kyungpook National University School of Medicine, Daegu, Korea
| | - Bong Seok Choi
- Department of Pediatrics, Kyungpook National University School of Medicine, Daegu, Korea
| | - Jong Kun Kim
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Kyungpook National University School of Medicine, Daegu, Korea
| | - Dong Il Won
- Department of Clinical Pathology, Kyungpook National University School of Medicine, Daegu, Korea.
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Netchiporouk E, Moreau L, Rahme E, Maurer M, Lejtenyi D, Ben-Shoshan M. Positive CD63 Basophil Activation Tests Are Common in Children with Chronic Spontaneous Urticaria and Linked to High Disease Activity. Int Arch Allergy Immunol 2016; 171:81-88. [PMID: 27846634 DOI: 10.1159/000451084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2016] [Accepted: 09/27/2016] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The basophil activation test (BAT) using CD63 expression is a sensitive and specific tool for the diagnostic workup of autoimmune chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU). The definition of a positive BAT is directly dependent on the reference range and the cutoff values established in control populations. As of now, the pediatric reference range and cutoff values of the CD63 BAT remain to be established. METHODS In this study, we analyzed CD63 expression in 80 children (1-17 years old) without chronic urticaria (i.e., controls) and compared the values to those of a pediatric cohort of 105 CSU patients and 23 physical urticaria (PU) patients. RESULTS Based on the log-normal distribution of CD63 values in control subjects, the reference range and the cutoff for positive CD63 BAT values was established to be 1.2-1.8% (95% CI) and 1.8%, respectively. Children with CSU showed significantly elevated and significantly increased BAT values compared to healthy controls (Wilcoxon rank test p value <0.001). In contrast, no difference was found between BAT results in controls and PU patients. In pediatric CSU patients, a higher disease activity was associated with higher BAT values. CONCLUSIONS Our study provides, for the first time, reference and cutoff values for the CD63 BAT in children. Our findings show that positive CD63 BAT are common in children with CSU and linked to a high disease activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Netchiporouk
- Division of Dermatology, Department of Medicine, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
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Curto-Barredo L, Yelamos J, Gimeno R, Mojal S, Pujol RM, Giménez-Arnau A. Basophil Activation Test identifies the patients with Chronic Spontaneous Urticaria suffering the most active disease. IMMUNITY INFLAMMATION AND DISEASE 2016; 4:441-445. [PMID: 27980778 PMCID: PMC5134723 DOI: 10.1002/iid3.125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2016] [Revised: 07/31/2016] [Accepted: 08/15/2016] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
Introduction The basophil activation test showing CD63 up regulation could be a specific and sensitive in vitro complementary text to the in vivo autologous serum skin test for the activity assessment of the patients suffering autoimmune chronic spontaneous urticaria. The aim of this study is to define the basophil activation test as a useful tool in clinical practice in order to identify those patients with more active disease. Methods We screened 139 patients (96 women) diagnosed of chronic spontaneous urticaria using simultaneously autologous serum skin test and basophil activation test and their relationship with disease activity. Results Positive autologous serum skin test was found in 56.8%; from them, 31.6% were basophil activation test positive. Negative autologous serum skin test result was found in the 43.2% of the sample that showed negative CD63 expression results in all cases, except one. Patients with positive autologous serum skin test and positive CD63 by basophil activation test showed significant higher Urticaria Activity Score of 7 days (P = 0.004) and of 3 weeks (P = 0.001) than patients with positive autologous serum skin test and negative CD63 (mean ± standard deviation [SD] 26.57 ± 10.56 versus 18.40 ± 12.05 for the Urticaria Activity Score of 7 days and 56.47 ± 23.78 versus 39.88 ± 25.44 for the Urticaria Activity Score of 3 weeks). Conclusions The CD63 expression on basophils appears as a reliable in vitro marker, useful in clinical practice in combination with autologous serum skin test to define chronic spontaneous urticaria patients with the highest urticaria activity that impairs a normal life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laia Curto-Barredo
- Department of Dermatology Institut Hospital del Mar d'Investigacions Mèdiques (IMIM), Universitat Autònoma Barcelona Spain
| | - Jose Yelamos
- Department of Immunology Institut Hospital del Mar d'Investigacions Mèdiques (IMIM) Barcelona Spain
| | - Ramon Gimeno
- Department of Immunology Institut Hospital del Mar d'Investigacions Mèdiques (IMIM) Barcelona Spain
| | - Sergi Mojal
- Department of Statistics Institut Hospital del Mar d'Investigacions Mèdiques (IMIM) Barcelona Spain
| | - Ramon M Pujol
- Department of Dermatology Institut Hospital del Mar d'Investigacions Mèdiques (IMIM), Universitat Autònoma Barcelona Spain
| | - Ana Giménez-Arnau
- Department of Dermatology Institut Hospital del Mar d'Investigacions Mèdiques (IMIM), Universitat Autònoma Barcelona Spain
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Chen Q, Zhai Z, Xu J, Chen W, Chen S, Zhong H, Huang X, Hao F, Song Z. Basophil CD63 expression in chronic spontaneous urticaria: correlation with allergic sensitization, serum autoreactivity and basophil reactivity. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol 2016; 31:463-468. [PMID: 27518369 DOI: 10.1111/jdv.13912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2016] [Accepted: 07/18/2016] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Q. Chen
- Department of Dermatology; Southwest Hospital; Third Military Medical University; Chongqing China
| | - Z. Zhai
- Department of Dermatology; Southwest Hospital; Third Military Medical University; Chongqing China
| | - J. Xu
- Department of Dermatology; Southwest Hospital; Third Military Medical University; Chongqing China
| | - W. Chen
- IZZ Immunologie-Zentrum Zürich; Zürich Switzerland
- Department of Dermatology and Allergy; Technische Universität München; Munich Germany
| | - S. Chen
- Department of Dermatology; Southwest Hospital; Third Military Medical University; Chongqing China
| | - H. Zhong
- Department of Dermatology; Southwest Hospital; Third Military Medical University; Chongqing China
| | - X. Huang
- Department of Dermatology; Southwest Hospital; Third Military Medical University; Chongqing China
| | - F. Hao
- Department of Dermatology; Southwest Hospital; Third Military Medical University; Chongqing China
| | - Z. Song
- Department of Dermatology; Southwest Hospital; Third Military Medical University; Chongqing China
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Giménez-Arnau AM, Grattan C, Zuberbier T, Toubi E. An individualized diagnostic approach based on guidelines for chronic urticaria (CU). J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol 2016; 29 Suppl 3:3-11. [PMID: 26053290 DOI: 10.1111/jdv.13196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2015] [Accepted: 04/14/2015] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Chronic urticaria (CU), defined as the spontaneous or inducible appearance of hives, angioedema or both for 6 weeks or more, presents with a number of subtypes which all substantially impair patients' quality of life (QoL). International urticaria guidelines give clear recommendations on workup and treatment but the occurrence of CU with multiple causes and triggers (sometimes with more than one subtype occurring in a single patient) presents challenges for an individualized assessment by physicians. This review summarizes recent guidance on the classification, diagnosis and assessment of CU subtypes and discusses how currently available patient assessment tools and laboratory tests can be used in clinical practice as part of an individualized patient management plan.
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Affiliation(s)
- A M Giménez-Arnau
- Department of Dermatology, Hospital del Mar, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - C Grattan
- Norfolk & Norwich University Hospital and St John's Institute of Dermatology, Norwich, UK
| | - T Zuberbier
- Department of Dermatology and Allergy, Allergie-Centrum-Charité, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - E Toubi
- Division of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Bnai-Zion Medical Centre, Haifa, Israel
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Ferrer M, Bartra J, Giménez-Arnau A, Jauregui I, Labrador-Horrillo M, Ortiz de Frutos J, Silvestre JF, Sastre J, Velasco M, Valero A. Management of urticaria: not too complicated, not too simple. Clin Exp Allergy 2015; 45:731-43. [PMID: 25429900 PMCID: PMC4403957 DOI: 10.1111/cea.12465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/27/2014] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
In spite of being an old disease and apparently easy to diagnose, chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU) is still perceived as an uncontrollable and difficult to manage disease. The perception of the patient is that his/her condition is not well understood and that is suffering from a disorder with hidden causes that doctors are not able to tackle. Sometimes patients go through a number of clinicians until they found some CSU expert who is familiar with the disease. It is surprising that myths and believes with no scientific support still persist. Guidelines are not widely implemented, and recent tools to assess severity are infrequently used. European and American recent guidelines do not agree in several key points related to diagnosis and treatment, which further contributes to confusion. With the aim to clarify some aspects of the CSU picture, a group of allergists and dermatologists from the Spanish Dermatology and Allergy societies developed a Frequent Asked Questions leaflet that could facilitate physicians work in daily practice and contribute to a better knowledge of common clinical scenarios related to patients with CSU.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Ferrer
- Department of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Clínica Universidad de NavarraPamplona, Spain
| | - J Bartra
- Allergy Unit, Pneumology Department, Hospital Clinic, University of BarcelonaBarcelona, Spain
- Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS)Barcelona, Spain
| | - A Giménez-Arnau
- Dermatology Department, Hospital del Mar, Parc de Salut Mar, Universitat Autonoma BarcelonaBarcelona, Spain
| | - I Jauregui
- Allergy Department, Hospital Universitario BasurtoBilbao, Spain
| | - M Labrador-Horrillo
- Allergy Section, Medicine Department, Hospital Vall d'Hebron, Universitat Autònoma de BarcelonaBarcelona, Spain
| | - J Ortiz de Frutos
- Dermatology Department, Hospital Universitario 12 de OctubreMadrid, Spain
| | - J F Silvestre
- Dermatology Department, Hospital General Universitario de AlicanteAlicante, Spain
| | - J Sastre
- Allergy Department, Fundación Jiménez DiazMadrid, Spain
| | - M Velasco
- Dermatology Department, Hospital Arnau de VilanovaValencia, Spain
| | - A Valero
- Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS)Barcelona, Spain
- Allergy Unit, Pneumology and Respiratory Department, Hospital Clínic (ICT), University of BarcelonaBarcelona, Spain
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Lee MF, Lin TM, Liu SW, Chen YH. A rapid method of detecting autoantibody against FcεRIα for chronic spontaneous urticaria. PLoS One 2014; 9:e109565. [PMID: 25333273 PMCID: PMC4198112 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0109565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2014] [Accepted: 09/10/2014] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Chronic spontaneous urticaria (CU) is a common skin disorder, with an estimated prevalence of 0.5–1.8% in most populations. Around 30–50% of CU patients have an autoimmune etiology, with autoantibodies (autoAbs) against IgE, FcεRIα, and FcεRII/CD23. Although the in vivo autologous serum skin test (ASST) and in vitro histamine release/activation assay are the most frequently used screening methods, these two have many limitations and do not directly measure susceptible autoAbs. This study aimed to establish an in vitro rapid screening test using recombinant autoantigen FcεRIα(rFcεRIα) to improve the diagnosis of autoimmune urticaria. Methods Forty patients with CU and 20 healthy individuals were enrolled. After PCR-based cloning and the production of extracellular fragments of the FcεRIαprotein using the E. coli expression system, serum autoAb to rFcεRIαwas evaluated using in-house ELISA and rapid immunodot test. Results In ELISA-based detection, 14 out of 20 CU-ASST(+) patients exhibited anti- FcεRIαresponses, whereas five of the 20 CU-ASST(-) and two of the 20 non-CU patients showed autoantibody background in the assay. For the immunodot test, 55% (11/20) of the CU-ASST(+) sera exhibited anti-FcεRIαreactivity. There was no false positive among the CU-ASST(-) and non-CU groups. Using clinical urticaria plus ASST(+) as the gold standard, in-house ELISA had 70% sensitivity, 82.5% specificity, and positive likelihood ratio of 4, while immunodot had 55% sensitivity, 100% specificity, and positive likelihood ratio >55. Conclusions This study has developed a rapid immunodot method with high specificity for detecting autoAb to FcεRIαin patients with CU. Preliminary data indicates that this immunodot technique has the potential to be a routine diagnostic assay for autoimmune CU.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mey-Fann Lee
- Department of Medical Research, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Tzu-Mei Lin
- Division of Allergy, Immunology and Rheumatology, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Szu-Wei Liu
- Division of Allergy, Immunology and Rheumatology, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Hsing Chen
- Division of Allergy, Immunology and Rheumatology, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
- Faculty of Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taichung, Taiwan
- * E-mail:
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Krause K, Metz M, Magerl M, Maurer M. Prevalence and relevance of skin autoreactivity in chronic urticaria. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014. [DOI: 10.1586/edm.09.54] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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16
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Hochstadter EF, Ben-Shoshan M. Cold-induced urticaria: challenges in diagnosis and management. BMJ Case Rep 2013; 2013:bcr-2013-010441. [PMID: 23839613 DOI: 10.1136/bcr-2013-010441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Cold-induced urticaria (CU) is a chronic physical urticaria that can be hard to diagnose and manage. Symptoms of CU can vary from mild localised urticaria, angio-oedema to anaphylaxis. CU may be induced by a wide range of cold triggers from aquatic activities to ingestions of cold substances. This exemplifies the importance of accurate diagnosis and management of patients with CU. We present three cases of CU that demonstrate the variability in triggers and clinical presentation.
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17
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Cho CB, Stutes SA, Altrich ML, Ardoin SP, Phillips G, Ogbogu PU. Autoantibodies in chronic idiopathic urticaria and nonurticarial systemic autoimmune disorders. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol 2013; 110:29-33. [PMID: 23244655 DOI: 10.1016/j.anai.2012.10.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2012] [Revised: 09/12/2012] [Accepted: 10/28/2012] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chronic idiopathic urticaria (CU) has been associated with other autoimmune diseases and basophil-activating autoantibodies to FcεRI or IgE. It is unknown whether patients with systemicautoimmune diseases have a similar prevalence of these autoantibodies. OBJECTIVE To compare the prevalences of basophil-activating autoantibodies (elevated CU Index) in patients with CU, rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Clinical characteristics and laboratory studies were examined for an association with the CU Index. METHODS Adult patients, 27 with CU, 27 with RA, and 26 with SLE, and 20 healthy controls were compared on the basis of the CU Index panel, anti-IgE, and antithyroid antibodies. RESULTS The CU Index values were significantly higher in the CU group when compared with the RA group but not when compared with the SLE group. 33% of CU, 23% of SLE, 3.7% of RA, and 15% of controls had apositive CU Index. Elevated antithyroid antibody levels did not correlate with a positive CU Index in any of the groups. An elevated CU Index in the SLE group was not associated with age, sex, ethnicity, disease severity, or history of atopy. CONCLUSION The CU Index values were elevated in patients with CU and SLE. The presence of these autoantibodies did not correlate with disease activity or presence of thyroid antibodies. Functional autoantibodies may not be specific for chronic idiopathic urticaria, and their role in nonurticarial systemic autoimmune diseases requires further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine B Cho
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, Department of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, Ohio, USA
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Konstantinou GN, Asero R, Ferrer M, Knol EF, Maurer M, Raap U, Schmid-Grendelmeier P, Skol PS, Grattan CEH. EAACI taskforce position paper: evidence for autoimmune urticaria and proposal for defining diagnostic criteria. Allergy 2013; 68:27-36. [PMID: 23157716 DOI: 10.1111/all.12056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 126] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/21/2012] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
An autoimmune subset of chronic spontaneous urticaria is increasingly being recognized internationally, based on laboratory and clinical evidence that has accrued over the last 20 years. This evidence has been reviewed by a taskforce of the Dermatology section of the European Academy of Allergy and Clinical Immunology. Functional autoantibodies in chronic urticaria (CU) patient sera have been demonstrated against IgE and FcεRIα by basophil and mast cell histamine release assays and by basophil activation assays. Antibody specificity has been confirmed by immunoassay, but there is a poor correlation between functionality and immunoreactivity. Approximately 25% of CU patients have a positive basophil histamine release assay and show autoreactivity (a positive autologous serum skin test), whereas 50% are negative regarding both. Functionality of CU sera appears to be complement dependent on mast cells but not exclusively on basophils. Basophil activation by CU sera is predominantly restricted to IgG1 and IgG3 subclasses. Circumstantial evidence for CU being an autoimmune disease comes from an observed association with other autoimmune diseases, a strong association between serum functionality and HLA-DR4 haplotype and the good response of CU patients to immunotherapies. It was proposed that a study should be undertaken to prospectively validate potentially relevant clinical criteria (from the history, examination and routinely available clinical investigations) against a new 'gold standard' for the diagnosis of ACU (positive autoreactivity, functional bioassay and immunoassay) to define preliminary criteria sets for the diagnosis of ACU based on clinical and laboratory features with highest individual sensitivity and specificity.
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Affiliation(s)
- G. N. Konstantinou
- Department of Allergy and Clinical Immunology; 424 General Military Training Hospital; Thessaloniki; Greece
| | - R. Asero
- Ambulatorio di Allergologia; Clinica San Carlo; Paderno Dugnano; Millan; Italy
| | - M. Ferrer
- Department of Allergy; Clinica Universidad de Navarra; Pamplona; Spain
| | - E. F. Knol
- Department of Dermatology and Allergology; University Medical Center Utrecht; Utrecht; The Netherlands
| | - M. Maurer
- Department of Dermatology and Allergy; Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin; Berlin; Germany
| | - U. Raap
- Department of Dermatology and Allergy; Hannover Medical School; Hannover; Germany
| | | | - P. S. Skol
- Department of Dermatology; Odense University Hospital; Odense Area; Denmark
| | - C. E. H. Grattan
- Department of Dermatology; St John's Institute of Dermatology; London and Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital; Norwich; UK
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19
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Chronic urticaria and thyroid autoimmunity markers. Open Med (Wars) 2012. [DOI: 10.2478/s11536-012-0074-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
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20
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Irinyi B, Gyimesi E, Garaczi E, Bata Z, Kemény L, Zeher M, Remenyik E, Szegedi A. Extended diagnostic value of autologous serum skin test and basophil CD63 expression assay in chronic urticaria. Br J Dermatol 2012; 168:656-8. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2133.2012.11179.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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21
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Gyimesi E, Gönczi F, Szilasi M, Pál G, Baráth S, Sipka S. The effects of various doses of bacterial lipopolysaccharide on the expression of CD63 and the release of histamine by basophils of atopic and non-atopic patients. Inflamm Res 2012; 62:213-8. [PMID: 23109053 DOI: 10.1007/s00011-012-0569-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2012] [Revised: 09/15/2012] [Accepted: 10/18/2012] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We tested the effect of various doses of bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS, endotoxin) on the expression of CD63 and the in vitro release of histamine by basophils stimulated with ragweed allergen in patients with or without ragweed and mite allergies. METHODS The peripheral blood of 11 patients with ragweed allergy, 10 patients with mite allergy and 14 control patients was incubated with ragweed allergen extract following pretreatment with varying doses of LPS. The expression of CD63 in basophils was measured by flow cytometry, and the release of histamine was determined by ELISA. RESULTS In the samples of patients with ragweed allergy that were exposed to specific allergen, only high doses of LPS significantly elevated the expression of CD63 (200 ng/ml; 1,000 EU/ml) and the release of histamine (2,000 ng/ml; 10,000 EU/ml). There was no effect of LPS in any other cases. CONCLUSIONS Bacterial LPS (endotoxin) concentrations higher than 200 ng/ml (1,000 EU/ml), which rarely occurs in nature, could only activate the basophils from atopic patients whilst in the presence of the specific allergen. Thus, the restoration of the urban, "microbe-poor" milieu with endotoxin (as LPS) can be a promising and harmless approach for allergy prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Gyimesi
- Division of Clinical Immunology, Department of Medicine, Medical and Health Science Centre, University of Debrecen, Móricz Zs U. 22, Debrecen 4032, Hungary
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22
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Gentinetta T, Pecaric-Petkovic T, Wan D, Falcone FH, Dahinden CA, Pichler WJ, Hausmann OV. Individual IL-3 priming is crucial for consistent in vitro activation of donor basophils in patients with chronic urticaria. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2011; 128:1227-1234.e5. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jaci.2011.07.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2011] [Revised: 07/04/2011] [Accepted: 07/15/2011] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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23
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Abstract
Cellular in-vitro assays are able to detect antigen-dependent cellular processes without any risk for the patient. After antigen stimulation, both the cellular antigen stimulation test assessing sulfidoleukotriene production in leukocyte suspension, and flow cytometric basophil activation assays determining surface activation markers (CD63, CD203c), represent accepted models for in-vivo mast cell stimulation particularly in IgE-dependent reactions of immediate type. The value of these assays should be estimated considering the type of antigen and further diagnostic options. Most studies can not be compared due to different allergen concentrations, conditions of stimulation, methods, and defined cut-offs. Therefore, it is difficult to evaluate published evidence. Because of the logistic effort, cellular assays are often available only in specialized laboratories. However, in daily routine they are important in cases with clear-cut history but negative conventional allergy diagnostic procedures, in case of rare allergens (drugs, exotic food), as well as contraindications for skin and/or provocation test (hymenoptera venom allergy, anaphylaxis).
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Affiliation(s)
- B Wedi
- Klinik für Dermatologie, Allergologie und Venerologie, Medizinische Hochschule Hannover, Ricklinger Str. 5, 30449, Hannover.
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24
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González-de-Olano D, Alvarez-Twose I, Morgado JM, Esteban López MI, Vega Castro A, Díaz de Durana MDA, Sánchez-Muñoz L, Matito A, de la Hoz Caballer B, Sanz ML, Orfao A, Escribano L. Evaluation of basophil activation in mastocytosis with Hymenoptera venom anaphylaxis. CYTOMETRY PART B-CLINICAL CYTOMETRY 2010; 80:167-75. [PMID: 21520404 DOI: 10.1002/cyto.b.20577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2010] [Revised: 09/01/2010] [Accepted: 09/30/2010] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Basophil activation tests (BATs) have been demonstrated to be useful in detecting IgE-mediated sensitization by measuring basophil activation surface markers (CD63 and CD203c). Hymenoptera venom is one of the best known mediators-release trigger in patients with systemic mastocytosis (SM). The aim of this study was to investigate the use of BATs as an additional diagnostic tool in patients with mastocytosis suffering from hymenoptera venom anaphylaxis (HVA). METHODS A total of 22 patients with history of HVA and SM, together with a group of 11 patients with HVA in whom SM was ruled out after a complete bone marrow study, were analyzed. RESULTS Among 11 SM patients who had specific serum IgE (sIgE) against hymenoptera venom and an evaluable BAT, a positive BAT was found in nine. Additionally, a positive BAT was detected in three of seven patients who had no sIgE. These three patients had low levels of total IgE compared with control population (mean of 20 vs. 78 IU/mL); one had discontinued immunotherapy after 5 years, when sIgE levels had turned negative, and, in the other two patients, BAT identified the culprit insect. CONCLUSIONS BAT is a useful complementary diagnostic tool to sIgE in mastocytosis patients with HVA, and it may contribute to predict or confirm these nearly fatal reactions, especially before discontinuing venom immunotherapy in patients who are negative for skin tests or sIgE or display low total IgE levels; in such cases, it also provides evidence on the culprit insect prompting HVA.
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25
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Ferrer M, Nuñez-Córdoba JM, Luquin E, Grattan CE, De la Borbolla JM, Sanz ML, Schwartz LB. Serum total tryptase levels are increased in patients with active chronic urticaria. Clin Exp Allergy 2010; 40:1760-6. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2222.2010.03582.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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26
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De Knop KJ, Hagendorens MM, Stevens WJ, De Clerck LS, Ebo DG. Angioedema beyond histamine: an educational case series. Acta Clin Belg 2009; 64:520-8. [PMID: 20101876 DOI: 10.1179/acb.2009.089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022]
Abstract
Angioedema constitutes an important clinical problem that can cause significant morbidity and mortality. Correct management requires a prompt recognition and treatment of the acute event and identification of the underlying cause. Many cases are caused by non-allergic reactions and do not result from mediator release by degranulating mast cells and basophils, but are related to accumulation of plasma and tissue bradykinin. This case series aims primarily to describe some important causes of non-allergic bradykinin-induced angioedema. Particular emphasis is put on clinical particularities, differential diagnosis, diagnostic approach and correct therapeutic management, as bradykinin-mediated angioedema is unresponsive to antihistamines.
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Affiliation(s)
- K J De Knop
- Department of Immunology, Allergology, Rheumatology University Hospital Antwerp, University Antwerp, Belgium
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27
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Konstantinou GN, Asero R, Maurer M, Sabroe RA, Schmid-Grendelmeier P, Grattan CEH. EAACI/GA(2)LEN task force consensus report: the autologous serum skin test in urticaria. Allergy 2009; 64:1256-68. [PMID: 19650847 DOI: 10.1111/j.1398-9995.2009.02132.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 174] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Injection of autologous serum collected during disease activity from some patients with chronic spontaneous urticaria (CU) into clinically normal skin elicits an immediate weal and flare response. This observation provides a convincing demonstration of a circulating factor or factors that may be relevant to the understanding of the pathogenesis and management of the disease. This test has become known as the autologous serum skin test (ASST) and is now widely practised despite incomplete agreement about its value and meaning, the methodology and the definition of a positive response. It should be regarded as a test for autoreactivity rather than a specific test for autoimmune urticaria. It has only moderate specificity as a marker for functional autoantibodies against IgE or the high affinity IgE receptor (FcepsilonRI), detected by the basophil histamine release assay, but high negative predictive value for CU patients without them. It is usually negative in other patterns of CU, including those that are physically induced. Positive ASSTs have been reported in some subjects without CU, including those with multiple drug intolerance, patients with respiratory allergy and healthy controls, although the clinical implications of this are uncertain. It is essential that failsafe precautions are taken to ensure that the patient's own serum is used for skin testing and aseptic procedures are followed for sample preparation and handling. CU patients with a positive ASST (ASST(+)) are more likely to be associated with HLADR4, to have autoimmune thyroid disease, a more prolonged disease course and may be less responsive to H1-antihistamine treatment than those with a negative ASST (ASST(-)) although more evidence is needed to confirm these observations conclusively.
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Affiliation(s)
- G N Konstantinou
- Allergy and Clinical Immunology Department, NIMTS, Army Hospital and Allergy Research Center National & Kapodistrian University of Athens, Greece
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28
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Abstract
It is well-recognized that 30-40% of chronic idiopathic urticaria is autoimmune in nature. Chronic autoimmune urticaria is caused by anti-FcepsilonRI and less frequently, by anti-IgE autoantibodies that lead to mast cell and basophil activation, thereby giving rise to the release of histamine and other proinflammatory mediators. Activation of the classical complement pathway and formation of C5a are important in dermal mast cell activation. C5a is also a neutrophil and eosinophil chemoattractant. Chronic autoimmune urticaria has been found to be associated with autoimmune thyroid disease. The autologous serum skin test is used as a screening test for chronic autoimmune urticaria and has a sensitivity and specificity of about 70 and 80%, respectively. The current gold standard diagnostic test is the basophil histamine release assay. The treatment of chronic autoimmune urticaria, as in chronic idiopathic urticaria, is with H1 antihistamines. Oral corticosteroids may be used during acute flares. Refractory cases have been shown to respond to cyclosporine and other immunomodulators. The prevalence of chronic autoimmune urticaria in Singapore is similar to that reported in Western countries at about 42%. The presence of thyroid autoimmunity appears to be higher than reported, with 22.5% of patients with chronic idiopathic urticaria here, exhibiting presence of thyroid autoantibodies.
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Affiliation(s)
- C L Goh
- From the Department of Dermatology, National Skin Center, Singapore.
| | - K T Tan
- From the Department of Dermatology, National Skin Center, Singapore.
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29
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Cherrez Ojeda I, Cruz E, León R, Mantilla R, Guerrero T, Soria J, Tafur A, Chica L, Gabino G. Chronic autoimmune urticaria in children. Allergol Immunopathol (Madr) 2009; 37:43-7. [DOI: 10.1016/s0301-0546(09)70251-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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30
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Lourenço FD, Azor MH, Santos JC, Prearo E, Maruta CW, Rivitti EA, Duarte AJS, Sato MN. Activated status of basophils in chronic urticaria leads to interleukin-3 hyper-responsiveness and enhancement of histamine release induced by anti-IgE stimulus. Br J Dermatol 2008; 158:979-86. [PMID: 18341658 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2133.2008.08499.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Basophils and mast cells are the main target cells in chronic idiopathic urticaria (CIU). Besides the basopenia, intrinsic defects of the anti-IgE cross-linking signalling pathway of basophils have been described in CIU. OBJECTIVES We sought to investigate the profile of expression of activation markers on basophils of patients with CIU and to explore the effect of interleukin (IL)-3 priming upon anti-IgE cross-linking stimuli through expression of activation markers and basophil histamine releasability. METHODS Evaluation of the surface expression of FcepsilonRIalpha, CD63, CD203c and CD123 on whole blood basophils of patients with CIU undergoing autologous serum skin test (ASST) was performed by flow cytometry. The effect of pretreatment with IL-3 in the anti-IgE response was analysed by the expression of basophil activation markers and histamine release using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. RESULTS Blood basophils of patients with CIU were reduced in number and displayed increased surface expression of FcepsilonRIalpha, which was positively correlated with the IgE serum levels. Upregulation of expression of both surface markers CD203c and CD63 was verified on basophils of patients with CIU, regardless of ASST response. High expression of IL-3 receptor on basophils was detected only in ASST+ patients with CIU. Pretreatment with IL-3 upregulated CD203c expression concomitantly with the excreting function of blood basophils and induced a quick hyper-responsiveness to anti-IgE cross-linking on basophils of patients with CIU compared with healthy controls. CONCLUSIONS Basophils of patients with CIU showed an activated profile, possibly due to an in vivo priming. Functionally, basophils have high responsiveness to IL-3 stimulation, thereby suggesting that defects in the signal transduction pathway after IgE cross-linking stimuli are recoverable in subjects with chronic urticaria.
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Affiliation(s)
- F D Lourenço
- Laboratory of Investigation in Dermatology and Immunodeficiencies (LIM-56), Department of Dermatology, School of Medicine, University of São Paulo, 05403-000 São Paulo, and Dermatological Outpatient Clinic, Hospital das Clínicas, Brazil
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31
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Ebo DG, Bridts CH, Hagendorens MM, Aerts NE, De Clerck LS, Stevens WJ. Basophil activation test by flow cytometry: Present and future applications in allergology. CYTOMETRY PART B-CLINICAL CYTOMETRY 2008; 74:201-10. [DOI: 10.1002/cyto.b.20419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 130] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
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32
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de Weck A, Sanz M, Gamboa P, Aberer W, Bienvenu J, Blanca M, Demoly P, Ebo D, Mayorga L, Monneret G, Sainte-Laudy J. Diagnostic Tests Based on Human Basophils: More Potentials and Perspectives than Pitfalls. Int Arch Allergy Immunol 2008; 146:177-89. [DOI: 10.1159/000115885] [Citation(s) in RCA: 108] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2007] [Accepted: 10/18/2007] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
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Abstract
Two types of mast cells, MC(T) and MC(TC), exist in humans. MC(T) and MC(TC) are different in their granular neutral proteases, tissue localizations, and functions. This article describes the differences between the cutaneous mast cell receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michihiro Hide
- Department of Dermatology, Programs for Biomedical Research, Division of Molecular Medical Science, Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Hiroshima University, 1-2-3 Kasumi, Minami-ku, Hiroshima 734-8551, Japan.
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Dyke SM, Carey BS, Kaminski ER. Effect of stress on basophil function in chronic idiopathic urticaria. Clin Exp Allergy 2007; 38:86-92. [PMID: 17976217 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2222.2007.02864.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chronic idiopathic urticaria (CIU) is a distressing skin condition involving recurrent itchy hives lasting 6 weeks or longer. The mechanism involves mast cell and basophil degranulation, which releases inflammatory mediators including histamine. In our clinical practice, we have observed that the onset of CIU is often preceded by a major life event. OBJECTIVE To investigate the role of the hormones of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis in the link between psychological stress and CIU. METHODS Thirty people with CIU and 30 normal controls were recruited. A flow cytometric CD63 expression assay was used to quantify basophil activation, and serum cortisol concentrations were measured as an indication of stress. RESULTS Both corticotrophin releasing factor (CRF) and adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH) were shown to activate basophils. There was no significant difference between numbers of CIU patients and normal controls responding to CFR, ACTH or cortisol. However, the responses in the CIU patients were stronger than those in normal controls. There was also a trend towards higher serum cortisol concentrations in CIU patients. The basophil response to CRF and ACTH correlated with the serum cortisol concentration in normal controls, but not in CIU patients. CONCLUSIONS Although our data have not supported the hypothesis that stress makes a major contribution to CIU, the heightened basophil response to CFR and ACTH and higher levels of serum cortisol do suggest a derangement of the HPA axis in CIU.
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Affiliation(s)
- S M Dyke
- Department of Immunology, Derriford Combined Laboratory, Derriford Hospital, Plymouth, UK
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35
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Irinyi B, Széles G, Gyimesi E, Tumpek J, Herédi E, Dimitrios G, Adány R, Hunyadi J, Szegedi A. Clinical and Laboratory Examinations in the Subgroups of Chronic Urticaria. Int Arch Allergy Immunol 2007; 144:217-25. [PMID: 17579280 DOI: 10.1159/000103995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2006] [Accepted: 03/14/2007] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The aetiology of chronic urticaria is heterogeneous. Physical urticaria (PU) is estimated at around 35%, autoimmune urticaria (AIU) at 25% and chronic idiopathic urticaria (CIU) at 35% of all chronic urticaria cases. METHODS Differences in clinical and laboratory parameters among AIU, PU and CIU groups were examined. AIU was diagnosed if the basophil CD63 assay was positive. Demographic data, severity of symptoms and association with allergic and autoimmune diseases were analysed by the aid of a questionnaire. Immunoassays were carried out and the effectiveness of therapy was also investigated. RESULTS Concerning the urticaria score, AIU patients had significantly higher total urticaria scores than patients with CIU (p = 0.013), dermatographic urticaria (p = 0.05) or cholinergic urticaria (p = 0.038). Between CIU and dermatographic urticaria and between CIU and cholinergic urticaria patients, we found insignificant differences in the urticaria score (p = 0.707 and p = 0.336, respectively). AIU was more frequently associated with autoimmune diseases in the personal history (p < 0.001) and with other types of urticaria in the family history (p < 0.001). Also, anti-thyroid antibodies were more frequently detected in the AIU group. Antihistamine therapy was less effective in the AIU group (12.8%) than in the PU (70.3%) and CIU groups (68.6%), but there were no significant differences between the CIU and PU groups regarding the effectiveness of antihistamine therapy. CONCLUSION The autoimmune subgroup represents the most severe form of chronic urticaria. On the other hand, there were no significant differences between the CIU and PU groups neither in urticaria scores nor in response to antihistamine therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beatrix Irinyi
- Department of Dermatology, Medical and Health Science Centre, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
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Abstract
A dolgozat bemutatja a leggyakoribb hazai allergéneket, az ételallergiák különböző formáit, diagnosztikájuk módjait, különös tekintettel az
in vitro
laboratóriumi diagnosztika lehetőségeire. A megfogalmazott gondolatok összhangban vannak a European Academy of Allergology and Clinical Immunology és a Klinikai Immunológiai és Allergológiai Szakmai Kollégium ajánlásaival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sándor Sipka
- Debreceni Egyetem, Orvos- és Egészségtudományi Centrum, III. Belgyógyászati Klinika, Regionális Immunológiai Laboratórium, Debrecen.
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Ebo DG, Sainte-Laudy J, Bridts CH, Mertens CH, Hagendorens MM, Schuerwegh AJ, De Clerck LS, Stevens WJ. Flow-assisted allergy diagnosis: current applications and future perspectives. Allergy 2006; 61:1028-39. [PMID: 16918504 DOI: 10.1111/j.1398-9995.2006.01039.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 120] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Physicians predominantly rely upon quantification of serum-specific immunoglobulin E (IgE) and/or skin test to confirm clinically suspected IgE-mediated allergy. However, for various reasons, identification of the offending allergen(s) and potentially cross-reactive structures is not always straightforward. Flow-assisted allergy diagnosis relies upon quantification of alterations in the expression of particular basophilic activation markers. Actually, upon challenge with a specific allergen, basophils not only secrete quantifiable bioactive mediators but also upregulate the expression of different markers which can be detected efficiently by flow cytometry using specific monoclonal antibodies. Currently, the technique has been applied in the investigation of IgE-mediated allergy caused by classical inhalant allergens, food, Hevea latex, hymenoptera venoms and drugs. It is also appreciated; the technique proves valuable in the diagnosis of non-IgE-mediated (anaphylactoid) reactions such drug hypersensitivity and the detection of autoantibodies in certain forms of chronic urticaria. This review will not address immunologic features, characteristics and general pitfalls of flow-assisted analysis of in vitro-activated basophils as summarized elsewhere. After a recapitulation of the principles and some specific technical issues of flow-assisted analysis of in vitro-activated basophils, we principally focus on the current clinical and research applications of the basophil activation tests. Personal experience of both research groups is provided, where appropriate. Finally, a viewpoint on how the field might evolve in the following years is provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- D G Ebo
- Department of Immunology, Allergology, Rheumatology, University Antwerp (UA), Antwerpen, Belgium
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Frezzolini A, Provini A, Teofoli P, Pomponi D, De Pità O. Serum-induced basophil CD63 expression by means of a tricolour flow cytometric method for the in vitro diagnosis of chronic urticaria. Allergy 2006; 61:1071-7. [PMID: 16918509 DOI: 10.1111/j.1398-9995.2006.01033.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Functional autoantibodies against the alpha-chain of the high-affinity IgE receptor (FcepsilonRIalpha) identify a subset of patients with chronic urticaria (CU) due to autoreactivity, as assessed by an in vivo positive response to autologous serum skin test (ASST). We performed a study to standardize the serum-induced basophil activation assay by flow cytometry (FCM) using a new tricolour method, assessing the diagnostic performance of this test in discriminating between ASST+ and ASST- CU patients. METHODS Sera of 64 CU patients (22 ASST+ CU and 42 ASST- CU) and 10 healthy subjects were tested for their ability to induce basophil CD63 expression when incubated with whole blood of both atopic (DA) and non-atopic donors (DNA). Using a triple-labelled strategy with anti-CD123, anti-HLA-DR and anti-CD63 antibodies, CD63+ basophils were identified on a selected population of CD123+ HLA-DR- cells. In 3 ASST+ CU patients who underwent cyclosporine therapy, the assay was performed before and after treatment. RESULTS The ASST+ CU sera resulted in a significant higher induction of basophil CD63 expression compared with ASST- CU and healthy donors sera; when whole blood from DA was used, sensitivity and specificity of the assay were 95.5% and 90.5% respectively. ASST+ CU serum activity was significantly decreased during cyclosporine A treatment, in parallel with clinical remission. CONCLUSIONS Chronic urticaria serum-induced CD63 expression assay performed on DA whole blood by means of our tricolour FCM method could be the most useful tool for identification of a subset of patients with autoimmune CU and may become a promising tool also for monitoring treatment efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Frezzolini
- Laboratory of Immunology and Allergology, Istituto Dermopatico dell'Immacolata, IDI-IRCCS, Rome, Italy
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Abstract
It is now recognized that approximately one-third of patients with chronic idiopathic urticaria (CIU) have histamine-releasing autoantibodies directed against either the high-affinity IgE receptor or, less frequently, against IgE. However, there are several unsolved problems relating to the role of such autoantibodies in the disease. Additionally, it is not clear whether CIU with autoantibodies can be classified as an autoimmune disease. The detection of patients with autoantibodies also poses challenges. Firstly, the only in vivo method, the autologous serum skin test, is at best 80% sensitive and specific using in vitro basophil histamine release assays as the verum. Secondly, in vitro tests are only done in a small number of research laboratories, and are not widely commercially available, and thirdly, there is some divergence between results obtained by different methods (functional and immunoassays) used to detect patients with autoantibodies. The presence of autoantibodies may be important clinically in a small group of severely affected, treatment-resistant patients, where immunomodulatory treatments may be helpful.
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Affiliation(s)
- R A Sabroe
- Department of Dermatology, Barnsley Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Gawber Road, Barnsley S75 2EP, UK.
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Vasagar K, Vonakis BM, Gober LM, Viksman A, Gibbons SP, Saini SS. Evidence of in vivo basophil activation in chronic idiopathic urticaria. Clin Exp Allergy 2006; 36:770-6. [PMID: 16776678 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2222.2006.02494.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Approximately 40% of chronic idiopathic urticaria (CIU) subjects have autoantibodies to either FcepsilonRIalpha or IgE. The effect of such autoantibodies on circulating basophil activation status is unknown. OBJECTIVE The expression of cell surface activation markers on basophils from CIU, non-allergic, and allergic subjects were compared. Further, the relationship between marker expression and serum factors reported in CIU, such as histamine-releasing activity (HRA) and immunoreactivity to FcepsilonRIalpha were examined. METHODS Peripheral blood was obtained from CIU, allergic, and non-allergic donors and fractionated by density gradients. Enriched basophils (1-12%) were analysed by flow cytometry for expression of activation markers including CD63, CD69, and CD203c. Dilutions of serum (5-50%) were analysed for HRA on basophils from a normal donor. Serum was tested for immunoreactivity by western blotting to a standard cell lysate prepared from an RBL-SX38 cell line transfected with human FcepsilonRIalpha. RESULTS CIU subjects (n=9) and allergic subjects (n=8) exhibited enhanced expression of CD63 and CD69, as compared with non-allergic subjects (n=7); however, no difference was seen among groups for CD203c expression. Five CIU and two non-allergic subjects had evidence of significant serum HRA (>20%), whereas two CIU, two allergic, and three non-allergic subjects had evidence of serum immunoreactivity to FcepsilonRIalpha. Serum HRA and serum immunoreactivity to FcepsilonRIalpha were not associated with enhanced surface marker expression. CONCLUSION Basophil activation marker expression is increased in CIU subjects and is not associated with serum factors. In addition, serum HRA and FcepsilonRIalpha immunoreactivity are not unique to CIU, or related to enhanced circulating basophil marker expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Vasagar
- Department of Medicine, Division of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA
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Szegedi A, Irinyi B, Gál M, Hunyadi J, Dankó K, Kiss E, Sipka S, Szegedi G, Gyimesi E. Significant correlation between the CD63 assay and the histamine release assay in chronic urticaria. Br J Dermatol 2006; 155:67-75. [PMID: 16792754 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2133.2006.07205.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Antibodies directed to the alpha subunit of the high affinity IgE receptor and the IgE molecule are proposed to be of pathogenetic relevance in a group of patients with chronic urticaria (CU). The diagnosis of autoimmune chronic urticaria (ACU) is difficult; the autologous serum skin test (ASST) seems to be a useful screening test, but reliable, additional confirmatory methods are needed. OBJECTIVES To assess the diagnostic value of a modified serum-induced basophil activation test, the CD63 expression assay, in the diagnosis of ACU by comparing the results of the CD63 assay with the results of the histamine release (HR) test, the ASST and serum levels of soluble CD40 ligand (sCD40L). METHODS Using basophils from an atopic (DA) and a nonatopic (DNA) donor the activity of sera of 72 patients with CU were measured in HR assay by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and in CD63 expression assay by flow cytometry. An ASST was carried out in all patients; in 30 of the 72 patients sCD40L was detected and correlations were derived between the different assays. Sera of 20 normal controls and 26 patients with systemic autoimmune diseases were also tested in the HR assay and in the CD63 expression assay. RESULTS Histamine-releasing activity was detected in the sera of 51% (DA) and 32% (DNA) of CU patients and 57% (DA) and 28% (DNA) of sera upregulated CD63 expression on the surface of basophils from the different donors. There was a significant correlation between the HR and the CD63 assays carried out on both donors, but the ASST showed a strong correlation with the HR assay only for basophils from the DA. The serum level of sCD40L was significantly higher in patients with CU compared with controls, but the difference between the autoimmune and the nonautoimmune groups was not significant. CONCLUSIONS The CD63 expression assay seems to be a reliable functional test in the diagnosis of ACU, particularly if highly sensitive donor basophils are used, but the determination of the sCD40L serum level was not sufficient to differentiate between the autoimmune and the nonautoimmune patient groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Szegedi
- Department of Dermatology, Medical and Health Science Centre, University of Debrecen, 98 Nagyerdei str., Debrecen 4012, Hungary.
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Sheikh J. Autoantibodies to the high-affinity IgE receptor in chronic urticaria: how important are they? Curr Opin Allergy Clin Immunol 2005; 5:403-7. [PMID: 16131914 DOI: 10.1097/01.all.0000182540.45348.bc] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Eighty to 90% of patients with chronic urticaria have no specific external cause for their disease, which is therefore labeled 'chronic idiopathic urticaria'. We now know, however, that as many as 30-50% of patients have evidence of an autoantibody to the high-affinity receptor for IgE (FcepsilonRI), which may be pathogenic. The exact prevalence and role of these autoantibodies is still under investigation. RECENT FINDINGS The frequency of autoantibodies to FcepsilonRI in chronic urticaria has been estimated at 30-50%, but extensive epidemiological studies have not been done. Recent work has confirmed that autoantibodies to FcepsilonRI can be functional, meaning that they can cause histamine release from basophils in vitro. Evidence increasingly suggests that such autoantibodies are also functional in vivo, but conclusive evidence is still lacking. Approximately 50% of cases of urticaria still have no known cause, but recent studies have demonstrated that some of these patients may have intrinsic abnormalities of basophils or mast cells. SUMMARY The recent evidence that is discussed in this review helps to clarify the role of autoantibodies in some cases of urticaria, but also points towards other non-autoimmune mechanisms that might be pathogenic. Further investigation in these areas will help us to understand the cause of urticaria in cases that are still classified as 'idiopathic'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javed Sheikh
- Harvard Medical School and Division of Allergy and Inflammation, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts 02215, USA.
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