In-vitro diagnostic in atopic dermatitis: Options and limitations

Atopic dermatitis is a chronic inflammatory skin disease with a complex pathogenesis and different exogenous and endogenous trigger factors. One important factor is the sensitization to inhalant and/or food allergens. The detection of total IgE and specific IgE antibodies to inhalant and/or food allergens is one central aspect in diagnosing atopic dermatitis, especially if skin prick tests are not feasible. Many patients are polysensitized, but not all sensitizations are of clinical relevance. The challenge is to identify the sensitizations with clinical relevance and to initiate suitable therapeutic options. In this article we go into detail for the allergens house dust mite, pollen, food, and Malassezia sympodialis. Furthermore, the authors comment on the impact of the detection of specific IgG/IgG(4 )antibodies in the diagnosis of food allergy in atopic dermatitis. Moreover, new options in the in-vitro diagnostic will be explained briefly and their actual diagnostic significance in patients with atopic dermatitis will be highlighted. These options are the detection of specific IgE antibodies to recombinant allergens and the allergen chip.