The development of negative skin tests in children treated with venom immunotherapy

J Allergy Clin Immunol. 1984 Jan;73(1 Pt 1):61-8. doi: 10.1016/0091-6749(84)90485-8.

Abstract

Twenty-eight of 62 children (45%) with a history of sting-induced anaphylaxis and initially positive skin tests to venom(s) developed negative venom skin tests to one or more of the venoms used in their treatment after 3 yr or more of immunotherapy. Children who developed negative venom skin tests were less sensitive prior to treatment, as judged by venom skin tests and venom-specific IgE antibody determinations, than children who maintained positive venom skin tests. Levels of venom-specific IgE antibodies declined with time in most children, but to lower levels in those with negative skin tests. Venom-specific IgG antibody levels were similar in both patients with negative skin tests and those with persistently positive skin tests. The development of negative skin tests may reflect a loss of allergic sensitivity, which is sufficient to allow the physician to consider the discontinuation of venom injections.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Antibody Specificity
  • Bee Venoms / therapeutic use*
  • Child
  • Child, Preschool
  • Humans
  • Immunoglobulin G / immunology
  • Immunotherapy
  • Insect Bites and Stings / immunology
  • Radioallergosorbent Test
  • Skin Tests*
  • Time Factors

Substances

  • Bee Venoms
  • Immunoglobulin G