High Total IgE Burden among Blood Donors in Côte d'Ivoire (West Africa): Implications for Public Health and Allergy Risk.

INTRODUCTION

In the sub-Saharan area, data regarding total IgE levels particularly among apparently healthy population remain rare. Defining the IgE profile is crucial to identify allergic diseases driven by westernized lifestyles as elevated IgE may compromise safety of blood transfusion. The aim of the study was to assess total IgE levels in blood donors, investigate a possible correlation with sociodemographic, environmental, and biological parameters such as parasitic infestation and discuss their implications for public health and allergy in West Africa.

METHODS

We carried out a prospective cross-sectional, descriptive and analytical study among blood donors. Information on the participants' allergy history as well as relevant environmental exposures were collected. Total IgE determination was performed by chemiluminescence, and stool samples underwent parasitological examination.

RESULTS

More than 30% of the donors had elevated total IgE. Stool parasite examinations were positive in 18% of blood donors with 2% helminthiasis. There was a significant relationship between age (p = 0.00, correlation coefficient = -0.22), eosinophil count (p = 0.003, correlation coefficient = -0.60), and total IgE indicating that age and eosinophils counts are associated with increased total IgE concentrations. Highest median of total IgE levels was seen in parasitized people regardless of atopic status supported the idea that parasitic infection is an important factor of total IgE level.

CONCLUSION

Continuing assessments are important to understand these high levels of IgE in blood donors. Since elevated total IgE can also occur in non-allergic state, we need to integrate surveillance strategies that address both parasitic infections and allergic diseases completed by others relevant investigations for more comprehensive approach in West Africa.