Laboratory of Medical Allergology, National University Hospital, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
Address for correspondence: Lars K. Poulsen, Ph.D., Laboratory of Medical Allergology, National University Hospital, Dept. 7551, 9 Blegdamsvej, DK-2100 Copenhagen O, Denmark. fax: +45 35 45 75 81.
lkpallgy{at}inet.uni2.dk
Ann. N.Y. Acad. Sci. 964: 185-196 (2002).
On the basis of applying the IFBC/ILSI decision tree in a number
of cases, a refinement of the scheme is suggested. Large differences
in allergenic potential may be obtained by altering the route
of administration of an allergen. Because an inhalation allergen
can induce symptoms at different threshold doses depending on
whether it is introduced via the inhalation or oral route, we
propose that double-blind, placebo-controlled food challenges
be performed in all cases of inhalation allergens being present
in foods. Even proteins never previously ingested may cause
IgE binding and elicit clinically relevant symptoms.
