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Basophil activation testing in occupational respiratory allergy to low molecular weight compounds
Publication date:
1 Apr 2019
Ref:
Curr Opin Allergy Clin Immunol. 2019 Apr;19(2):92-97
Author(s):
Vera-Berrios RN, Feary J, Cullinan P
Publication type:
Review
Abstract:
PURPOSE OF REVIEW: There is an unmet need for better immunological tests in cases of suspected occupational asthma to many workplace chemicals; here we consider the basophil activation test (BAT), a potential alternative to the detection of specific IgE antibodies. RECENT FINDINGS: BAT is fairly widely used in general allergy services; and there is increasing experience of its use in the diagnosis of occupational allergy to low molecular weight agents and chemicals including wood dusts, persulphates, antibiotics and latex. SUMMARY: There is potential for BAT to become a useful tool in the clinical consideration of occupational asthma and of its mechanisms, and even to take a place in a Bayesian-based diagnostic algorithm. Further development will only occur if specialist centres with appropriate facilities, and preferably in collaboration, contemplate its use.