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The preparation of detoxified venom (venomoid) of Apis mellifera is described. The venomoid obtained by formaldehyde detoxification retained significant antigenicity. Radioallergosorbent test (RAST) inhibition studies indicated a loss of the affinity of the venomoid for the venom-specific human IgE antibody. In rabbits the venomoid was capable of producing precipitating antibodies which cross-reacted with the original venom. Cytotoxic activity of venomoid as measured by nonimmunological histamine release and hemolytic activity with human cells was not detectable in vitro. Further studies seem warranted for the establishment of a venomoid as a diagnostic and/or therapeutic agent in the management of the hypersensitivity reactions to venom.

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