Le test d'activation des basophiles

Immediate hypersensitivity is mediated by IgE bound on mast cells and basophils through a high affinity receptor. Subsequent encounter with the antigen causes the aggregation of this receptor and then the degranulation of theses cells with release of mediators leading to clinical features sometimes fatal. The basophil activation test aims to reproduce in vitro the triggering of this hypersensitivity by incubating the cell with the putative allergen and to evaluate the result of this activation directly at the cellular level; thus the test provides its own pieces of information. The basophils are gated using a fluorescent antibody and their degranulation is evaluated with to a second one, conjugated with another fluorochrom. Some variations of the method have been reported with similar performances; and the test needs a laboratory experienced in the fields of allergy and flowcytometry. This test is not designed for a systematic screening but due to its versatility, it can fit for definite situations and for different goals. So the basophil activation test is a tool with interesting capabilities in service to physicians and patients.