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Immune status in atopic eczema: a survey
Author(s) -
BYROM N.A.,
TIMLIN D.M.
Publication year - 1979
Publication title -
british journal of dermatology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 2.304
H-Index - 179
eISSN - 1365-2133
pISSN - 0007-0963
DOI - 10.1111/j.1365-2133.1979.tb05574.x
Subject(s) - immunoglobulin e , immunology , immune system , confusion , lymphocyte , medicine , allergy , immunopathology , t lymphocyte , atopy , antibody , psychology , psychoanalysis
SUMMARY We have searched the literature for data on the in vitro assessment of immune status in atopic eczema patients, and have found much confusion. The major findings are tabulated. It is concluded that atopic eczema is a form of immune deficiency, although it is unclear whether this is a primary or secondary defect. Most authors find a T‐lymphocyte deficit while eosinophils, B lymphocytes and serum IgE are increased. Serum IgE levels appear to be correlated with severity of eczema symptoms. We have previously suggested that T‐lymphocyte levels are overestimated in eczema when fetal calf serum is used in the E‐rosette assay. Analysis of the literature for the effect of this serum in the assay confirms that there is a T‐lymphocyte deficit in atopic eczema, but that the serum masks it. Thus, much of the confusion surrounding this issue can be resolved.