[Rare hyperimmunoglobulinemia E syndromes].

Total immunoglobulin E levels are very frequently measured, particularly for allergy. Their high levels are ordinarily found in atopy and parasitosis. This article subject is to determine rare diseases where high levels of total immunoglobulin E are found except in classic diseases.

Gastro-oesophageal reflux prevalence and relationship with bronchial reactivity in asthma.

The relationship between asthma and gastro-oesophageal reflux (GER) is controversial. In an allergy department, GER prevalence was evaluated in asthmatics, with a view to judging the potential influence of GER on asthma. One hundred and five asthmatics were recruited and co-investigated for GER and lung function.

[Hepatic porphyria: diagnostic and therapeutic strategies].

Acute hepatic porphyrias are genetic diseases of heme synthesis with severe prognosis due to strong or acute abdominal pain and neurological complications. Clinical evolution is characterized by acute attacks frequently induced by either forbidden drugs, or infections, alcohol intake or often unknown factors. Modern treatment is perfusion of hematin, which is a stable form of heme.

[Mast cells and basophils in asthma].

Airway inflammation may contribute to the nonspecific bronchial hyperreactivity, which is a prominent feature in chronic asthma. Many stimuli such as allergens in allergic asthma, virus and irritants may induce an early reaction and in some cases a late reaction. An increase of nonspecific bronchial hyperreactivity is well demonstrated after this late reaction but no after the early one.

[Immediate allergy to latex. 12 cases].

Immediate hypersensitivity to latex is now well known. Contact urticaria is the most common manifestation, sometimes associated with rhinitis, asthma or a generalized rash. Atopy and frequent contact with latex favor sensitization.