Recent applications of basophil activation tests in the diagnosis of drug hypersensitivity

Asia Pac Allergy. 2013 Oct;3(4):266-80. doi: 10.5415/apallergy.2013.3.4.266. Epub 2013 Oct 31.

Abstract

Immediate-type drug hypersensitivity is an increasingly significant clinical issue; however, the diagnosis is frequently hindered due to lack of safe and precise diagnostic tests. Flow cytometry-assisted basophil activation test is a safe in vitro diagnostic tool for assessing basophil activation upon allergen stimulation. In this review, we have summarized current literature on the diagnostic utilities, new indications, and methodological aspects of the basophil activation test for the diagnosis of drug hypersensitivity.

Keywords: Basophil activation test; Basophils; CD203c; CD63; Drug hypersensitivity; Immunologic tests.

Publication types

  • Review