XXXX nsLTP as an "In Vivo" Diagnostic Tool: Sensitization in a Mediterranean Population.

@entity1 @entity566 @entity523 @entity2486
BACKGROUND: @entity523 @entity566 have been extensively studied but component-resolved in vivo diagnosis with purified allergens has yet to be performed. OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the prevalence of sensitization to Sola l 3 in a Mediterranean population, and to compare the resulting sensitization profile with that of individuals sensitized to @entity523 , @entity2486 , and/or purified lipid transfer protein (LTP). METHODS: Sola l 3 was purified, characterized, and used to prepare skin prick tests (SPTs). Two groups of @entity1 were selected. Group 1 consisted of @entity1 with at least 1 positive SPT to @entity523 , @entity2486 , or LTP mixture (marker extracts) who were subsequently tested with Sola l 3 (n = 280). Group 2 (prevalence study) consisted of @entity1 who underwent simultaneous SPT with the 3 marker extracts and Sola l 3 (n = 658). @entity1 from either group who were positive to any of the 4 extracts were studied in detail (study group, n = 1 23). ELISA and immunoblot assays were performed in individuals with a positive SPT to Sola l 3 to detect the presence of specific IgE antibodies to this allergen. RESULTS: Prevalence of sensitization to Sola l 3 was 3.2% overall and 54.7% in @entity523 -positive @entity1 . Most @entity523 -sensitized @entity1 were asymptomatic. Symptoms were more common in Sola l 3-positive individuals. Sensitization to @entity2486 and the LTP mixture did not discriminate between Sola l 3-positive and Sola l 3-negative @entity1 . CONCLUSIONS: This study confirms that LTP, not only from @entity2486 but also from other fruit and vegetables, including @entity523 , is an important allergen in the Mediterranean area. Sensitization to Sola l 3 is associated with more symptoms in @entity523 -sensitized @entity1 .
