IgE and IgG antibodies to bee venom as measured by a modification of the RAST method

Abstract

The radioallergosorbent test (RAST) is widely used in studying allergy to Hymenoptera stings, but with variable results. A modification of the RAST method is reported. Results of studies on 157 bee keepers and family members gave a close correlation between a positive RAST and a history of generalized (100%) or localized (95%) allergic reactions. There was no positive RAST among 49 non-atopic control subjects but a striking finding was that 58% of non-allergic bee keepers had significant, but usually low, levels of IgE antibody to bee venom. IgG antibodies to bee venom were also measured by a paper disc RAST which is quick and convenient. Levels were highest in non-allergic bee keepers. In the presence of high levels of IgG antibody, IgE antibody levels may be underestimated.