Allergists have long used immunoglobulin E quantitative assaying of allergens (IgEQAA) to determine reactivates for allergies associated with a runny nose and asthma. However, the test is not widely used for other dermatologic conditions. Now, new research shows the test may be useful in identifying antigens associated with atopic dermatitis (AD). Test results can help patients avoid sources of some specific environmental allergens and lessen disease severity, according to a study published June 20 in the International Journal of Dermatology. The researchers retrospectively assessed affected AD severity based on body surface area (BSA) at first presentation, IgEQAA classes, and total IgE concentration (Immunocap; Thermo Scientific) for 54 patients (average age of 42.9 years) with AD, seen in a private dermatology practice. The panel included the most common respiratory allergen antigens. The researchers found that 41 of the 54 patients had an abnormally high total IgE concentration (defined as greater than 150 IU/ml) with an average IgE concentration of 2682.7 IU/ml. Additionally, nine patients (17 percent) had significant improvements in AD symptoms after making lifestyle changes to avoid allergens (such as dog, cat, Bermuda grass, and rabbit) that patients had been in contact with. No patients had repeat IgEQAA levels drawn, […]