Correlation between inhalant allergen-specific IgE and pulmonary function in children with asthma

Sensitization to aeroallergens is associated with diminished lung function in adults. Little has been studied on the relationship between the inhalant allergen‐specific IgE and pulmonary function in asthmatic children. This study was focused on four major inhalant allergens found in Korea, including Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus (Der p.), Dermatophagoides farinae (Der f.), and Alternaria‐ and German cockroach‐specific IgEs, with evaluation of pulmonary function in relation to the amount of allergens. The parents or legal guardians of participants enrolled in this study gave informed consent. Fifty‐five asthmatic patients and 48 nonasthmatic children were included. The amounts of specific IgE for the four specified inhalant allergens were determined by employing the CAP system FEIA. Forced expiratory volume in 1 sec (FEV1)/forced vital capacity (FVC), FEV1, and forced expiratory flow between 25% and 75% of FVC (FEF25–75) of subjects were evaluated through pulmonary function tests. In the asthmatic group, FEV1, FEV1/FVC, and FEF25–75 were significantly reduced (P