Alcohol-induced alterations in serum immunoglobulin E (IgE) levels in human subjects

Abstract

The association of alcohol intake with total serum IgE concentrations in humans is discussed in the present review. The possible relationship of regular alcohol intake with both the risk of allergic sensitization and serum allergen-specific IgE values is also reviewed. Several studies consistently show that total serum IgE concentrations are increased in alcoholics when compared with healthy controls. Total serum IgE levels decrease after ethanol abstinence in alcoholics. Total serum IgE is increased in moderate alcohol consumers with respect to abstainers. Alcohol consumption in mothers may be associated with increased cord blood IgE levels in their offspring. IgE elevation in alcohol consumers is independent of potential confounders such as age, sex, liver disease, cigarette smoking or atopic status. Experimental studies in animals further support that ethanol administration is followed by an increase in serum IgE concentrations. In atopic patients, regular alcohol consumption is associated with increased serum specific IgE levels against some aeroallergens. Preliminary reports suggest that alcohol intake is associated to variable risk of sensitization to some aeroallergens. The possible mechanisms of alcohol-induced alterations in IgE levels and IgE-mediated diseases are discussed.

Alcohol during pregnancy and atopic dermatitis in the offspring

“…Excessive and even moderate consumption of alcohol increases levels of serum total IgE, as reviewed by González‐Quintela et al [24]. Recently, population‐based studies have confirmed this effect [25, 26].…”

“…This is consistent with the notion that the effect of alcohol on the fetal immune system is transient and attenuates after ceased exposure to alcohol at birth where the maternal and fetal circulations are separated. The alcohol‐mediated increase in serum IgE in alcoholics also appears to be transient, since serum IgE decreases within weeks from the time of alcohol abstinence [24]. Accordingly, the increased levels of histamine in the blood of the newborn offspring of ethanol‐fed rats returned to control values after birth [19].…”

Regulation and dysregulation of immunoglobulin E: a molecular and clinical perspective

“…Alcohol ingestion has been associated with elevated IgE levels [91]. Certain forms of nephritides demonstrate IgE elevation [92].…”

Asthma and Allergic Diseases in Pregnancy

“…Alcohol consumption by the mother during pregnancy is associated with higher total IgE levels in cord blood [76]. Alcohol consumption in adults is also a risk factor for elevated specific IgE levels against food antigens [77,78].…”

“…Moreover, alcohol consumption has been shown to induce higher IgE levels against aeroallergens in atopic patients [76]. …”