Cross-sectional study on allergic sensitization of Austrian adolescents using molecule-based IgE profiling

BackgroundAllergen-specific IgE antibodies are a hallmark of type I allergy. The aim of this cross-sectional study was to analyze the sensitization profiles of an Austrian adolescent population utilizing molecule-based IgE diagnosis. MethodsSerum samples of 501 nonselected pupils from Salzburg, Austria, were tested in ImmunoCAP ISAC((R)) for IgE reactivity to 112 single allergens. Sensitization profiles were assessed and statistically coordinated with reported allergies. ResultsIn the population aged 12-21 years, 53.5% showed IgE reactivity to at least one allergen tested. The highest prevalence was found for Phl p 1 from grass pollen (26.5%), group 2 mite allergens (18.2%), Bet v 1 from birch pollen (16.3%) and Fel d 1 from cat (14.4%). The majority of participants showed a complex sensitization profile and reacted on average to 9 allergens. Pollen sensitization was highly prevalent (41.7%) and mainly driven by group I grass and PR-10 allergens of the Betulaceae family, while Pla l 1 represented the most relevant weed. Diagnosed and self-reported allergies were noted in 21.9% and 45.5% of participants, respectively, and correlated well with in vitro results. Among atopic individuals, 71.4% reported to suffer from at least one allergy; concordance was found for grass and cat sensitization, while venom- and weed pollen-positive individuals were frequently asymptomatic. ConclusionsMore than half of the tested adolescent population had already established an atopic status presenting a complex IgE reactivity profile dominated by pollen sensitization. Detailed molecule-based analysis allows determining relevant biomarkers and monitoring of the atopic status in populations.