Serum IgE levels and the use of sodium cromoglycate (BP) in hay fever: a study of forty‐six patients from a single general practice

Abstract

Summary In a double blind trial of nasal spray of sodium cromoglycate (DSCG) for hay fever, fifteen of twenty‐three patients taking the drug were helped, compared with thirteen of twenty‐three receiving placebo—a statistically insignificant difference. Serum levels of IgE were raised in thirty‐eight of forty‐four patients examined. There was no significant difference between preseasonal and seasonal serum IgE levels in either of the DSCG or the placebo group. Serum IgE levels were significantly higher in the patients showing peripheral blood or nasal secretion eosinophilia during the hay fever season. There was no significant difference in the frequency of nasal secretion eosinophilia between those taking DSCG and those taking placebo. It is concluded that DSCG spray does not affect serum IgE levels or eosinophilia of either peripheral blood or nasal secretions under the conditions applying in this trial. Neither was DSCG significantly better than placebo in controlling symptoms.

Immunological Studies on the Mechanism of Gold Hypersensitivity Reactions

“…Abnormally high serum IgE levels together with eosinophilia acquired on gold therapy and remitting on gold withdrawal is suggestive of a type I hypersensitivity reaction. Type I reactionare well recognized in various allergic states and the c,rabination of raised IgE and eosinophilia has been reported in tropical filariasis and hay fever (Manners and Ezeoke, 1973). Type I hypersensitivity reactions due to drugs are uncommon, though occasionally seen with penicillin reactions.…”

Intranasal betamethasone valerate in the treatment of seasonal rhinitis

“…Capel & McKelvie (1971) reported that, on inhalation of sodium cromoglycate powder, 41% of adults improved, and Morrison Smith (1971) that 50% of children improved. Blair & Herbert (1973) and Manners & Ezeoke (1973) found 65% of their patients improved on an aqueous solution of sodium cromoglycate. Bagratuni (1960) observed that 70% improved on promethazine hydrochloride, 92% on phenindamine tartrate, 55% with prednisolone spray, and 50% with hydrocortisone snuff.…”

A Comparison of Sodium Cromoglycate Nasal Solution and Powder in Hay Fever

“…In 1972 there was some doubt as to the efficacy of S.C.G. solution in hay fever (Manners, 1973) but this may have been due to inadequate and irregular antigenic challenge. From the results described in the present paper, it is concluded that during periods of high grass pollen counts in Great Britain, S.C.G., used either as a spray or as a powder, is an acceptable means of treating hay fever.…”