Authors' objectives:

The aim of this report is to establish the indications for the specific-IgE test for the diagnosis and monitoring of allergies.

Authors' results and conclusions: (i) Critical literature review. The review covered allergic reactions in relation to: - specific body systems: respiratory system, allergic conjunctivitis; - specific allergens: foods, latex, insect stings, hymenoptera venom, drugs; - specific situations: perioperative context, work-related allergies. Most clinical guidelines and reviews were based on studies of poor design quality and with little relevance to clinical practice. Studies on the IgE test were of a low level of evidence. (ii) Indications for the IgE test for diagnosis and monitoring of existing allergies. The report's conclusions were based on strong agreement among the working group members. The working group issued the following reminders: - As for skin testing, the presence of specific IgEs indicates the body's sensitivity to the test substance and does not necessarily imply an allergy to the substance. The sensitivity can result from direct contact with the allergen or from a cross-reaction with a homologous substance. - When a specific-IgE test is ordered, the allergen should be specified and should not refer to a brand name.

Authors' recommendations: The working group stressed the need for: - continued research, - training of physicians in basic and practical aspects of allergology, during both initial and continuing medical education, - rewriting of the section of the French Nomenclature for Biomedical Tests (NABM) relating to allergy, to make it more precise, complete and applicable, - complete information for professionals (prescribers and laboratory analysts) on the rules for prescribing allergy tests and obtaining reimbursement. - information for patients on the nature and significance of the tests prescribed for them.

Authors' methods: Review

Project Status: Completed

URL for project: http://www.has-Sante.fr/

Year Published: 2005

English language abstract: An English language summary is available

Publication Type: Not Assigned

Country: France

Organisation Name: Haute Autorité de Santé

Contact Address: 2 avenue du Stade de France, 93218 Saint-Denis La Plaine Cedex, France. Tel: +33 01 55 93 71 88; Fax: +33 01 55 93 74 35;

Contact Name: has.seap.secretariat@has-sante.fr

Contact Email: has.seap.secretariat@has-sante.fr

Copyright: Haute Autorite de Sante/French National Authority for Health (HAS)