Systemic Allergic Shock Induced in Monkeys Passively Sensitized by Intravenous Injection of Human Allergy Sera

Abstract

Macaca irus monkeys were passively systemically sensitized by intravenous injection of sera from patients with severe and systemic hypersensitivity to castor beans. Skin-scratch tests showed passive skin sensitivity. Intravenous injection of allergen elicited systemic reaction involving the skin and respiratory system; retching and nausea were observed. The symptoms in one monkey were quickly abolished by intravenous injection of adrenalin. One monkey exhibited gross shock and collapse; intramuscular administration of adrenalin failed to alleviate the reaction, and this animal died in shock 8 hours after challenge. Allergic shock syndromes in monkeys passively sensitized with human reaginic sera closely resembled allergic shock in human patients. Such studies with monkeys may prove useful in elucidating the nature of antibodies of allergic patients and in the development of therapeutic and first-aid treatment for allergic shock.