Skin test reactivity to 2 recombinant Aspergillus fumigatus allergens in A fumigatus-sensitized asthmatic subjects allows diagnostic separation of allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis from fungal sensitization.

BACKGROUND: Aspergillus fumigatus, an opportunistic pathogen, is associated with an impressive list of pulmonary complications. Among these, allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA) represents a complex clinical syndrome that is difficult to diagnose. A clear distinction between allergic sensitization to A fumigatus and ABPA is essential for therapy to prevent deterioration of pulmonary function in subjects with ABPA.

OBJECTIVE: This study was carried out to determine the specificity and sensitivity of 2 A fumigatus allergens for the in vivo diagnosis of ABPA.

METHODS: Serologic investigations with recombinant A fumigatus allergens indicated the existence of disease-specific allergens that are useful for discrimination between ABPA and fungal sensitization. However, serologic studies fail to indicate the allergen-specific IgE levels required to elicit an allergic reaction in vivo.

RESULTS: We show that the recombinant A fumigatus allergens rAsp f 4, a protein with unknown biologic function, and rAsp f 6 (manganese superoxide dismutase) are able to provoke immediate skin reactions exclusively in patients with ABPA. The reactions, which are elicited by a few nonograms of the allergens, strictly depend on the presence of allergen-specific serum IgE. The IgE cut-off values for positive skin reactions to rAsp f 4 and rAsp f 6 of 0.9 and 1.2 kU(A)/L correspond to allergen-specific serum concentrations of 2 to 3 microg/L and allow a sensitive, highly specific diagnosis of ABPA.

CONCLUSIONS: In contrast to fungal extracts, rAsp f 4 and rAsp f 6 allow discrimination between ABPA and sensitization to A fumigatus. Moreover, the allergens are suitable for an automated serologic diagnosis of ABPA, facilitating their introduction in clinical practice.