No abstract

High exposure to rats is associated with lower rates of specific IgE and symptoms but an increased frequency of high specific IgG and IgG(4) production. Specific IgG(4) produced together with specific IgE may reduce the risk of developing work-related chest symptoms compared with when specific IgE is produced alone.

No abstract

A multicentre, prospective cohort study of childhood asthma was established in three European countries; the purpose of the project is the examination of factors which modify the relationship between allergen exposure in infant life and subsequent atopy and asthma.Dust samples were collected from the homes of 643 infants in a single town in the UK (the first cohort) and assayed for house dust mites (Der p 1) and cat allergen (Fel d 1) concentrations by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. A questionnaire with potential relevance to the development of atopy and asthma was completed.A wide variation in exposure to both allergens was observed. Carpeted, doubleglazed or damp living rooms, and those sampled in the winter months, had higher levels of Der p 1, but these features did not predict Fel d 1 concentrations. Measures of high home occupancy were positively related to Der p 1 concentrations; and inversely with levels of Fel d 1, a finding which could not be explained by cat ownership. Homes in which one or more persons smoked had significantly lower concentrations of Der p 1, but not Fel d 1. There were no consistent differences in allergen levels between homes where one or more parent or sibling was either atopic or asthmatic.These findings indicate complex interactions among domestic, behavioural and seasonal factors and early allergen exposure in British children. Eur Respir J 1999; 13: 583±589.

This is the first demonstration of genetic susceptibility in idiopathic bronchiectasis. The association with HLA-C group 1 homozygosity, and the interplay between HLA-C and KIR genes, argue for a role for NK cells in the progressive lung damage seen in this disease. This will require further investigation using functional studies.