Abstract
Aim: To examine the level of total and specific IgE to FA in response to the higher FA level.
Methods: A gross anatomy lab was evaluated for FA concentration during the 4th 10th & 14th weeks. Personal samples were taken from instructors and students using a sampling device pinned on individual's collar for 2 to 3 hours. Analysis was carried out using high performance liquid chromatography. Blood samples from all participants were analyzed by radio allergosorbent test (RAST) using Pharmacia ImmunoCAP 250 analyzer.
Result: The average indoor FA concentration was 0.68, 0.85, and 0.73, ppm in the 4th, 10th and 14th weeks. The average personal exposure level for students was 0.75, 1.20, and 1.10 ppm and 1.27, 1.44 and 1.33 ppm for instructors. Total blood IgE and IgE specific to FA of all students and instructors did not increase significantly.
Conclusion: Increased concentration and personal exposure to FA did not stimulate the production of IgE specific to FA. Thus allergic symptoms are not directly related to IgE but likely to be related with irritants.