Serum immunoglobulin E concentrations and radioallergosorbent tests in children with atopic dermatitis.

Serum IgE concentrations and the presence of allergen-specific IgE were determined in a series of 23 children with atopic dermatitis. In this group 83% had significantly elevated serum levels of IgE, 91% had coexistent respiratory allergy, 70% had radioallergosorbent test (RAST) evidence of pollen hypersensitivity, and 43% gave a history and demonstrated a RAST score consistent with milk or egg hypersensitivity. In patients with eczema a significant proportion of the elevated serum IgE appears to be antigen specific.