[Leucocyte histamine release assay and its use in the diagnosis of atopic extrinsic asthma (author's transl)].

Quantitative estimation of histamine, the most important mediator of immedite hypersensitivity reaction, is described. Leucocytes, isolated from the peripheral blood of patients suspected to suffer from atopic extrinsic asthma are washed and incubated with the antigens to be tested. The amount of histamine released is measured by a fluorometric method. The leucocyte histamine release assay is compared with several commonly used methods for the diagnosis of an atopic sensitisation (cutaneous skin test, inhalative provocation test, serum IgE concentration). The usefulness of the application of this relevant and reliable in vitro test especially in patients with advanced obstruction of the respiratory tract or with superelevated rate of sensitisation, in infants and in any acute or subacute state of disease is discussed.