Publication date: 

1 Apr 2019

Ref: 

Cur 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.