Abstract

Mast cells are regularly found in the nasal mucosa of healthy persons. Their number increases in allergic and infections rhinitis. With the help of immunohistochemical techniques, cell surface-bound IgE antibodies within a nasal specimen in allergic rhinitis can be distinguished from other non-IgE-associated pathomechanisms. Using conventional mast cell staining techniques together with immunohistochemistry, we were able to demonstrate that IgE-associated cells within the allergic nasal mucosa predominantly resemble mast cells. They increase in number and migrate into the respiratory epithelium due to allergen exposure and show a high cell turnover and degranulation rate. Their number does not correlate with serum IgE levels. These findings suggest that mast cells not only represent the major mediator cells in Type I allergic reactions, but also the transport media for IgE antibodies produced in regional lymphoid tissues.

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