Cat (dander), e1

Cat sensitization is strongly associated with asthma, especially in mite- and cockroach-free environments. Children with cat allergy and problematic severe asthma have higher levels of IgE antibodies to cats compared to children with controlled asthma.

Severe asthma may be caused by multiple sensitization to lipocalins (Fel d 4) and uteroglobins (Fel d 1). Pork/cat syndrome or allergy to cat scruf and pork may be mediated by cross-reactive antibodies against pork serum albumin and feline serum albumin (Fel d 2).

It has been documented that Fel d 1 is very readily airborne and then transported by fine particles, which in turn transports it to environments where there has been no contact with the cat. Concentrations in such environments were at levels that exceeded the proposed sensitization threshold of 8 µg/g.

In addition, the small exposures to cats that occur in many cat-free homes may cause symptoms in some patients sensitized to cats.

Determination of specific IgE in human blood to Cat (scruf), e1, shows the body's reaction to this allergen.

Analysis method is ImmunoCAP (Immunofluorescence on solid phase).

Units of measurement is kU/l

The sampling material is venous blood