Could Bet v 1 affect sensitization molecular pattern in children?

BACKGROUND

Allergy is characterized by allergen-specific IgE production. Molecular-based allergy diagnostic allows to define the precise sensitization profile. Bet v 1 is the major allergen of the PR-10 family. It has been reported that pan-allergens could affect the sensitization panel in adults.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to evaluate the impact of Bet v 1 sensitization on clinical presentation in a sample of children with Bet v 1-sensitization; oral allergy syndrome (OAS) or anaphylaxis (ANA) were considered.

METHODS

Serum IgE molecular components were assessed by ISAC method. Sera and clinical data from 132 children, 91 males (68.94%) and 41 females (31.06%), mean age 9.08 years (3.45 years), were analyzed.

RESULTS

Bet v 1-sensitized children were frequently, but not exclusively, sensitized to other molecules belonging to PR-10 family. However, there was no significant difference concerning IgE levels between children with or without food allergy and between children with OAS and ANA, but hazelnut only for generic food allergy.

CONCLUSIONS

The present study demonstrates that Bet v 1 sensitization may affect the sensitization pattern in children living in Genoa, a Mediterranean city located in a birch-free area, but it is unable to discriminate patients from a clinical point of view. So, ISAC test should be integrated with more precise IgE assay.