New data analysis in a population study raises the hypothesis that particle size contributes to the pro-asthmatic potential of small pet animal allergens.

Background: The size of inhaled particles influences where they deposit and theoretically should be important for the development of airway inflammation and responsiveness. Our aim was to assess if sensitization to smaller-sized aeroallergens relates to higher prevalence of treated asthma, increased airway responsiveness, and airway and systemic inflammation.

Methods: Molecular-based IgE antibody determination was done in 467 subjects.

Natural history of perceived food hypersensitivity and IgE sensitisation to food allergens in a cohort of adults.

Background: No longitudinal studies exist on the natural history of food hypersensitivity and IgE sensitisation to food allergens in adults.

Objective: To examine the natural history of food hypersensitivity, the natural history of IgE sensitisation to food allergens and to investigate the risk factors for new onset food hypersensitivity.

Methods: Food hypersensitivity was questionnaire-assessed in 2307 individuals (aged 20-45 years) from Iceland and Sweden during the European Community Respiratory Health Survey both at baseline and follow-up 9 years later.

Population-based study of multiplexed IgE sensitization in relation to asthma, exhaled nitric oxide, and bronchial responsiveness.

Background: IgE sensitization is an important risk factor for the development of asthma.

Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate the IgE antibody profile for a broad spectrum of allergen molecules in asthmatic patients.

Methods: Participants from the European Community Respiratory Health Survey II (n=467) were tested with ImmunoCAP ISAC against 103 allergen molecules.