Search

This common statement of the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (AAAAI) and The European Academy of Allergy and Clinical Immunology (EAACI) provides an update of the 2012 published guidelines on food challenges. The guidelines equally address food challenges in the research and the clinical settings. They first address the diagnostic tests which can guide the decision to conduct a challenge. Safety of food challenges is prime, and the various procedures and safety issues as well as medications potentially involved in challenges are extensively discussed. Challenges are suggested to be conducted with semi‐logarithmic incremental doses based on the protein content, typically for IgE‐mediated food allergy with intervals of 20–30 min between doses. Specific protocols for other types of reactions such atopic dermatitis or gastrointestinal food allergy are detailed separately. Proper stopping criteria are essential in order to reduce the risk of false‐positive diagnoses, but also severe reactions. The guidelines recommend criteria based on "go on," "stop," or "observation." These revised guidelines will clearly provide much needed guidance for food challenges in the research and clinical settings. They will continue to evolve with new diagnostic tests or new needs in the field of food allergy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Allergen component resolved diagnosis (CRD) is a method for identifying specific protein molecules that cause hypersensitivity. Unlike traditional methods that use crude allergen extracts containing multiple component species, CRD focuses on individual allergen protein molecules for more precise diagnosis. The World Allergy Organization (WAO) recommends CRD as a supplement to clinical history and allergen extract testing, and in some cases, it can replace crude extract tests. Methods: CRD involves the use of natural or recombinant proteins to detect specific IgE antibodies directed at individual allergenic components. This method allows for a more detailed analysis of a patient's allergic response compared to the use of whole allergen extracts. The Allergy Prevention and Control Specialty Committee of the Chinese Preventive Medicine Association, in collaboration with multidisciplinary experts, developed an expert consensus that incorporates the consensus of the European Academy of Allergy and Clinical Immunology (EAACI), WAO, and important domestic literature on CRD in recent years. Results: The consensus aims to standardize the algorithm of allergen diagnosis and provides a reference for clinical practice. It also offers guidance for clinicians on the common protein families identified by CRD, the scenarios where CRD is applicable, and the significance of detecting common allergen components. Conclusions: Despite its potential, CRD is not widely used in clinical practice in China due to the lack of allergen component reagents and a general unawareness among clinicians about CRD's application and interpretation of test results. The expert consensus developed by the Chinese Preventive Medicine Association aims to address this gap and enhance the clinical application of CRD in China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cow's milk allergy (CMA) overdiagnosis appears to be increasing and is associated with excessive low‐allergy formula prescription. We evaluated recent trends and regional variation in low‐allergy formula prescribing for CMA in England, and assessed potential risk factors for higher prescribing rates. Methods: Data on national and regional prescribing of low‐allergy formulas were extracted from England's electronic prescription database using R. Region‐level factors were evaluated for potential associations with regional low‐allergy formula prescription rates using multivariate linear regression. Analysis of national prescribing trends covered 2007–2023, analysis of regional variation and region‐level factors examined 2017–2019, prior to a re‐organisation of the regional healthcare structure in England. Results: Low‐allergy formula prescribing increased from 6.1 to 23.3 L per birth nationally, between 2007 and 2023. Regional prescribing rate varied from 0.8 to 47.6 L per birth in 2017–2019. We found significant associations between regional low‐allergy formula prescribing rate and regional prescribing rates for milk feed thickeners Gaviscon Infant and Carobel Instant (β = 0.10, p < 0.01), and for other anti‐reflux medications used in young children (β = 0.89 p < 0.01). Inconsistent associations were seen with prescribing junior adrenaline auto‐injectors and oral antibiotics. A model including these four variables accounted for 37% of regional variation in low‐allergy formula prescribing rate. Region‐level socio‐economic deprivation, CMA guideline recommendations and paediatric allergy service provision were not associated with low‐allergy formula prescribing. Conclusions: Low‐allergy formula prescribing in England is increasing, varies significantly by region and is consistently associated with prescribing rates for milk feed thickeners and other anti‐reflux medication for young children. Community prescribing behaviours may be important determinants of CMA overdiagnosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

La réforme du troisième cycle des études médicales (R3C) de 2017 s'est accompagnée de modifications des maquettes et du nombre de diplômes d'études spécialisées (DES). L'objectif de ce travail est d'étudier l'évolution de l'attractivité du DES de médecine interne et immunologie clinique (MIIC) depuis la R3C. Nous avons utilisé le rang de classement médian et son évolution ainsi que le bilan des droits au remords entrants et sortants comme marqueurs d'attractivité. Le nombre de postes offerts au choix, les classements et affectations ont été collectés via les arrêtés publiés chaque année au Journal Officiel. Une enquête de l'Amicale des Jeunes Internistes a investigué les raisons des droits au remords sortants ou entrants. Avant 2017, la médecine interne était accessible en moyenne à 52 % des étudiants avec un rang médian de 1118 [339–2640]. À partir de 2017, le DES de MIIC était accessible en moyenne à 76,6 % des étudiants avec un rang médian de 2772 [1039–5155]. Le bilan des droits au remords entrants et sortants était de –4,7 % avant 2017 et variait entre –4,1 et –12,4 % à partir de 2017. Depuis la mise en place de la R3C, le rang médian et le rang limite des étudiants choisissant le DES de MIIC ont augmenté et le bilan des droits au remords est négatif. Une réflexion sur l'attractivité du DES de MIIC est engagée par le Collège national des enseignants de médecine interne afin de faire connaître la richesse de la spécialité et ses différents modes d'exercice aux futurs internes. The 2017 reform of the third cycle of medical studies (R3C) was accompanied by modifications in the formats and number of specialty diplomas. The aim of this study was to investigate the evolution of the choice of the internal medicine and clinical immunology specialty before and after 2017. We used the median ranking and its evolution, as well as incoming and outgoing remorse rights, as markers of attractiveness. Data on the number of position offered, rankings and affectation were collected from decrees published in the French "Journal Officiel" each year. A survey conducted by the "Amicale des Jeunes Internistes" investigated the reasons for the outgoing or incoming rights to remorse. Before 2017, internal medicine was accessible to 52% of students on average, with a median rank of 1118 [339–2640]. From 2017 onwards, the internal medicine specialty was accessible to an average of 76.6% of students, with a median rank of 2772 [1039–5155]. The balance of incoming and outgoing remorse rights was –4.7% before 2017 and varied between –4.1 and –12.4% from 2017. Since 2017, the median and cut-off ranks of students choosing internal medicine specialty have increased, and balance of incoming and outgoing remorse rights was increasingly negative. A reflection on the attractiveness of the internal medicine specialty is undertaken by the National College of Internal Medicine Teachers in order to make the richness of the specialty and its different modes of practice known to future residents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: There is clear evidence that prevalence of primary antibody deficiency (PAD) is higher in children with chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) than in the general population. The purpose of this multi‐institutional and multidisciplinary evidence‐based review with recommendations (EBRR) is to thoroughly review the literature on rhinosinusitis with PAD, summarize the existing evidence, and provide recommendations on the evaluation and management of rhinosinusitis in children with PAD. Methods: The PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane databases were systematically reviewed from inception through December 2023. Studies on the evaluation and management of rhinosinusitis in PAD patients were included. An iterative review process was utilized in accordance with EBRR guidelines. Levels of evidence and recommendations on the evaluation and management principles for PAD were generated. Results: A total of 50 studies were included in this evidence‐based review. These studies were evaluated on the incidence of PAD in rhinosinusitis patients, the incidence of rhinosinusitis in PAD patients, and on the different treatment modalities used and their outcome. The aggregate quality of evidence varied across the reviewed domains. Conclusion: Based on the currently available evidence, the incidence of PAD in children with recalcitrant CRS can be significantly elevated. Despite the presence of multiple studies addressing rhinosinusitis and PAD, the level of evidence supporting different treatment options continues to be lacking. Optimal management requires a multidisciplinary approach through collaboration with clinical immunology. There is need for higher level studies that compare different treatments in children with PAD and rhinosinusitis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To look for the spectrum of infections and the factors predisposing to infection in patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc). In this retrospective study, demographic, clinical features, details of infections, immunosuppressive therapy, and outcomes of patients with SSc attending clinics at department of Clinical Immunology and Rheumatology, Sanjay Gandhi Postgraduate Institute of Medical Sciences, Lucknow, India from 1990 to 2022 were captured. Multivariable-adjusted logistic regression was applied to identify independent predictors of infection. Data of 880 patients, mean age 35.5 ± 12 years, and female: male ratio 7.7:1, were analyzed. One hundred and fifty-three patients had at least 1 infection with a total of 233 infectious episodes. Infections were most common in lung followed by skin and soft tissue. Tuberculosis was diagnosed in 45 patients (29.4%). Klebsiella was the commonest non-tubercular organism in lung and Escherichia coli in urinary tract infections. In comparison to matched control group, patients with infection had a greater number of admissions due to active disease, odds ratio (OR) 6.27 (CI 3.23–12.18), were receiving immunosuppressive medication OR, 5.05 (CI 2.55–10.00), and had more digital ulcers OR, 2.53 (CI 1.17–5.45). Patients who had infection had more likelihood for death OR, 13.63 (CI 4.75 -39.18). Tuberculosis is the commonest infection and lung remains the major site of infection in patients with SSc. Number of hospital admissions, digital ulcers and immunosuppressive therapy are predictors of serious infection in patients with SSc. Patients with infections had more likelihood of death. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Critical thinking has been regarded as an essential skill for college students, which is especially imperative for medical students to possess the ability to have in-depth insight into complex clinical situations. Medical Immunology is an overarching principle connecting multiple medical subjects, which emphasizes that immunity is both beneficial and harmful to the host, thus putting higher demands on students' critical thinking. The utilization of Nobel Prize stories has been cited as a thematic framework for classroom teaching of other courses, showing numerous educational benefits. Therefore, this study rejuvenated a case-based teaching approach by creating and introducing a vibrant material library centered on numerous iconic Nobel Prize cases in Medical Immunology and evaluating its effects on the critical thinking of medical students. Methods: A total of 70 second-year medical undergraduates from the Beijing University of Chinese Medicine were divided into a control group and an experimental group of 35 cases each. Throughout the semester, the control received the traditional teaching method, and the experimental group adopted case-based teaching based on the Nobel prize-centered material library. The process of teaching design and practice was described using "Antitoxin and immunoserum therapy" as a classical example. A unified assessment of the critical thinking dispositions of participants was conducted at the beginning and end of the semester using the Critical Thinking Disposition Inventory-Chinese Version (CTDI-CV). Results: Intra-group longitudinal comparisons and inter-group parallel evaluations indicated that, compared with the conventional teaching approach, Nobel Prize case-based learning induced a statistically significant increase in the overall score of the CTDI-CV, as well as the scores within the subdimensions of truth-seeking, analyticity, and maturity in judgment (p < 0.05). Pearson correlation analysis further indicated a positive correlation between the total score of the CTDI-CV and the final grade (p < 0.05), which emphasized the crucial role of critical thinking dispositions in academic achievement. Conclusion: The case-based classroom teaching centered on Nobel Prize cases for Medical Immunology can effectively improve the critical thinking dispositions of medical undergraduates, which contributes to cultivating high-level medical and healthcare talents with excellent comprehensive quality in the new era. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This document provides an update on a medical algorithm for diagnosing and treating drug hypersensitivity reactions to biologicals. Biologicals now include drugs made from organic molecules produced by living organisms that target genes or proteins for therapy. Hypersensitivity reactions to biologicals can be categorized beyond traditional classifications and are best defined by their clinical presentation and underlying mechanism. Risk stratification is important in determining eligibility for rapid drug desensitization, and alternative therapies should be considered for certain reaction types. The document also discusses the use of basophil activation testing and skin testing for diagnosing drug allergies, as well as the importance of delabeling patients who do not have a drug allergy to save resources. Rapid drug desensitization is a personalized approach that requires a multidisciplinary team and premedication based on the initial reaction. Different protocols exist for desensitization based on the level of risk, and breakthrough reactions are treated symptomatically. The document also highlights specific considerations for managing hypersensitivity reactions in children and the need for standardization of protocols. Phenotype switching, where the type of reaction to a biological drug changes, is also discussed, along with the management of hypersensitivity reactions to specific monoclonal antibodies. The document includes a list of references for further research on drug reactions, hypersensitivity, and desensitization, providing valuable information for researchers and healthcare professionals in the field of allergy and clinical immunology. [Extracted from the article]

Severe cutaneous adverse reactions to drugs (SCARs) are rare but life‐threatening delayed allergies. While they primarily affect the skin, they can also affect internal organs. Accordingly, they present with diverse clinical symptoms that vary not only between SCARs subtypes but also among patients. Despite the availability of topical and systemic treatments, these only address the symptoms and not the cause. To develop more effective therapies, it is necessary to elucidate the complexity of the pathophysiology of SCARs in relation to their severity. In line with the new type IV hypersensitivity reactions nomenclature proposed by the European Academy of Allergy and Clinical Immunology (EAACI), this review highlights the current insights into the intricate immune mechanisms engaged, the interplay between the culprit drug and genetic predisposition in drug presentation mechanisms, but also how external factors, such as viruses, are implicated in SCARs. Their relevance to the development of targeted medicine is also discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Methods Results Conclusions Omalizumab (XOLAIR®)‐assisted multi‐food oral immunotherapy (mOIT) has been shown to safely, effectively, and rapidly desensitize patients with multiple food allergies. In our clinical trial (NCT02626611) on omalizumab‐assisted mOIT, different desensitization outcomes (success or failure of desensitization) were observed following a period of either continued or discontinued mOIT. However, the association between the immunological changes induced by omalizumab‐assisted mOIT and desensitization outcomes has not yet been fully elucidated. In this study, due to the key roles of regulatory T (Treg) cells and the type 2 helper T cell (Th2) pathway in immune tolerance to food allergens, we aimed to characterize their association with the desensitization outcomes of omalizumab‐assisted mOIT.Mass cytometry and multiplex cytokine assays were performed on blood samples obtained from participants with allergies to peanut, cashew, or milk in our phase 2 clinical study (NCT02626611). Comprehensive statistical and bioinformatic analyses were conducted on high‐dimensional cytometry‐based single‐cell data and high‐throughput multiplex cytokine data.Our results demonstrated that the frequency of HLA‐DR+ Treg cells, and the production of Th2 cytokines (IL‐4, IL‐5, IL‐13, and IL‐9) as well as the immunoregulatory cytokine IL‐10 by peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) was significantly increased in cultures with allergen compared to cultures with media alone at baseline (Week 0). We also observed increased frequency of allergen responsive HLA‐DR+ Treg cells and enhanced production of IL‐10 by PBMCs in participants who achieved successful desensitization compared to those with failure of desensitization. However, the production of Th2 cytokines by PBMCs did not show significant differences between participants with different desensitization outcomes (success vs. failure of desensitization), despite omalizumab‐assisted mOIT inducing a significant reduction in the production of Th2 cytokines.We demonstrated that the frequency of HLA‐DR+ Treg cells and IL‐10 cytokine production by PBMCs are associated with desensitization outcomes of omalizumab‐assisted mOIT. These findings suggest potential immunological parameters that could be targeted to enhance desensitization success rates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To change the current situation that immune molecules presented only by schematic diagram or static model in the textbook of Medical Immunology, and to present the specific and vivid molecular morphology and functions to students. And set up corresponding elective course to let students personally explore the structure and function of immune molecules. Methods: On one hand, the teaching team applied the molecular simulation technology of scientific research to the production of teaching materials for the specific morphology, structural characteristics and functions of immune molecules, which were used in the teaching of medical immunology for medical undergraduates majoring in clinical, oral and preventive medicine. On the other hand, a related elective course research on the love of molecule was opened to give students the opportunity to operate relevant software by themselves and learn the structure and function of immune molecules. Results: The application of molecular simulation in teaching improved teachers' teaching ability, strengthened teachers' immunology knowledge, enhanced the interaction between teachers and students, and achieved good teaching results. Conclusion: It is feasible to apply molecular simulation technology to medical immunology teaching for undergraduates, which can improve the teaching quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Asthma, the most common chronic disease, is characterized by airway inflammation and airflow obstruction. The World Health Organization estimates that approximately 300 million people worldwide have asthma, 30% of whom are pediatric patients. Asthma is a major cause of morbidity that can lead to hospitalization or death in severe pediatric cases. Therefore, it is necessary to provide children with objective and reliable treatment according to consistent guidelines. Several institutes, such as the Global Institute for Asthma, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, British Thoracic Society, Japanese Society of Pediatric Allergy and Clinical Immunology, and Korean Academy of Asthma, Allergy, and Clinical Immunology have published and revised asthma guidelines. However, since recommendations differ among them, confusion persists regarding drug therapy for pediatric asthma patients. Additionally, some guidelines have changed significantly in recent years. This review investigated the latest changes in each guideline, compared and analyzed the recommendations, and identified the international trends in pediatric asthma drug therapy. The findings of this review may aid determinations of the future direction of the Korean guidelines for childhood asthma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) agonists are a class of medications indicated for type 2 diabetes and obesity that may play a role in the management of cutaneous disease, in part due to their anti-inflammatory effects. These molecules interact with cytokines critical to the development and persistence of skin disease, such as TNF-α, IL-23, IL-17 and IL-22. Correspondingly, immunologic pathways that are downregulated by GLP-1 agonists may serve as a target for various skin conditions that are worsened by inflammation. Furthermore, the known benefit of weight loss for certain skin conditions may be further potentiated by GLP-1 agonists. In this brief report, the authors describe multiple cases of patients with psoriasis, hidradenitis suppurativa, acanthosis nigricans, and Hailey-Hailey disease for which patients experienced improvement subsequent to treatment with GLP-1 therapy. These cases demonstrate the utility of GLP-1 agonists in treating dermatologic conditions that are refractory to other therapies and further highlight the potential of GLP-1 agonists in treating skin disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU) is a common, debilitating skin disorder characterized by recurring episodes of raised, itchy and sometimes painful wheals lasting longer than 6 weeks. CSU is mediated by mast cells which are absent from peripheral blood. However, lineage−CD34hiCD117int/hiFcεRI+ cells in blood have previously been shown to represent a mast cell precursor. Methods: We enumerated FcεRI−, FcεRI+ and FcεRIhi lineage−CD34+CD117+ cells using flow cytometry in blood of patients with CSU (n = 55), including 12 patients receiving omalizumab and 43 not receiving omalizumab (n = 43). Twenty‐two control samples were studied. Disease control and patient response to omalizumab was evaluated using the urticaria control test. We performed single‐cell RNA sequencing (scRNA‐Seq) on lineage−CD34hiCD117hi blood cells from a subset of patients with CSU (n = 8) and healthy controls (n = 4). Results: CSU patients had more lineage−CD34+CD117+FcεRI+ blood cells than controls. Lineage−CD34+CD117+FcεRI+ cells were significantly higher in patients with CSU who had an objective clinical response to omalizumab when compared to patients who had poor disease control 90 days after initiation of omalizumab. scRNA‐Seq revealed that lineage−CD34+CD117+FcεRI+ cells contained both lymphoid and myeloid progenitor lineages, with omalizumab responsive patients having proportionally more myeloid progenitors. The myeloid progenitor lineage contained small numbers of true mast cell precursors along with more immature FcεRI− and FcεRI+ myeloid progenitors. Conclusion: Increased blood CD34+CD117+FcεRI+ cells may reflect enhanced bone marrow egress in the setting of CSU. High expression of these cells strongly predicts better clinical responses to the anti‐IgE therapy, omalizumab. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Primary immunodeficiencies, also commonly called inborn errors Of immunity (IED, are commonly due to developmental or functional defects in peripheral blood cells derived from hematopoietic stem cells. In light of this, for the past 50 years, hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) has been used as a definitive therapy for IEI. The fields of both clinical immunology and transplantation medicine have had significant advances. This, in turn, has allowed for both an increasing ability to determine a monogenic etiology for many IEIs and an increasing ability to successfully treat these patients with HSCT. Therefore, it has become more common for the practicing allergist/immunologist to diagnose and manage a broad range of patients zeith IEI before and after HSCT. This review aims to provide practical guidance for the clinical allergist/immunologist on the basics of HSCT and knoum outcomes in selected forms of IEI, the importance of pre-HSCT supportive care, and the critical importalice of and guidance for life-long immunologic and medical monitoring of these patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) is the deepest component of the three‐layered cutaneous integument. While mesenteric adipose tissue‐based immune processes have gained recognition in the context of the metabolic syndrome, SAT has been traditionally considered primarily for energy storage, with less attention to its immune functions. SAT harbors a reservoir of immune and stromal cells that significantly impact metabolic and immunologic processes not only in the skin, but even on a systemic level. These processes include wound healing, cutaneous and systemic infections, immunometabolic, and autoimmune diseases, inflammatory skin diseases, as well as neoplastic conditions. A better understanding of SAT immune functions in different processes, could open avenues for novel therapeutic interventions. Targeting SAT may not only address SAT‐specific diseases but also offer potential treatments for cutaneous or even systemic conditions. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview on SAT's structure and functions, highlight recent advancements in understanding its role in both homeostatic and pathological conditions within and beyond the skin, and discuss the main questions for future research in the field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article examines the relationship between preoperative nasal mucus thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP) and the impact on quality of life in chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP). The study reveals that CRSwNP patients have elevated TSLP levels in their nasal mucus, which is associated with a lower quality of life and treatment resistance. The findings suggest that measuring TSLP levels in nasal mucus could be a useful noninvasive method for predicting the severity and treatment response of CRSwNP. However, further research is needed to validate these findings and explore the role of TSLP in CRSwNP. The document also includes references to three scientific articles that provide additional insights into the topic of rhinosinusitis and nasal polyps. [Extracted from the article]

In rhinitis and asthma, several mHealth apps have been developed but only a few have been validated. However, these apps have a high potential for improving person‐centred care (PCC), especially in allergen immunotherapy (AIT). They can provide support in AIT initiation by selecting the appropriate patient and allergen shared decision‐making. They can also help in (i) the evaluation of (early) efficacy, (ii) early and late stopping rules and (iii) the evaluation of (carried‐over) efficacy after cessation of the treatment course. Future perspectives have been formulated in the first report of a joint task force (TF)—Allergic Rhinitis and Its Impact on Asthma (ARIA) and the European Academy of Allergy and Clinical Immunology (EAACI)—on digital biomarkers. The TF on AIT now aims to (i) outline the potential of the clinical applications of mHealth solutions, (ii) express their current limitations, (iii) make proposals regarding further developments for both clinical practice and scientific purpose and (iv) suggest which of the tools might best comply with the purpose of digitally‐enabled PCC in AIT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Immunology and microbiology research has witnessed remarkable growth and innovation globally, playing a pivotal role in advancing our understanding of immune mechanisms, disease pathogenesis, and therapeutic interventions. This manuscript presents a comprehensive exploration of the key areas in immunology research, spanning from the utilisation of bacterial proteins as antibody reagents to the intricate realms of clinical immunology and disease management. The utilisation of bacterial immunoglobulin-binding proteins (IBPs), including protein A (SpA), protein G (SpG), and protein L (SpL), has revolutionised serological diagnostics, showing promise in early disease detection and precision medicine. Microbiological studies have shed light on antimicrobial resistance patterns, particularly the emergence of extended-spectrum beta-lactamases (ESBLs), guiding antimicrobial stewardship programmes and informing therapeutic strategies. Clinical immunology research has elucidated the molecular pathways underlying immune-mediated disorders, resulting in tailored management strategies for conditions such as severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID), neuropsychiatric systemic lupus erythematosus (NPSLE), etc. Additionally, significant efforts in vaccine development against tuberculosis and HIV are highlighted, underscoring the ongoing global pursuit of effective preventive measures against these infectious diseases. In summary, immunology and microbiology research have provided significant contributions to global healthcare, fostering collaboration, innovation, and improved patient outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hypereosinophilic syndrome (HES) encompasses a heterogeneous and complex group of different subtypes within the wider group of hypereosinophilic disorders. Despite increasing research interest, several unmet needs in terms of disease identification, pathobiology, phenotyping, and personalized treatment remain to be addressed. Also, the prospective burden of non-malignant HES and, more in general, HE disorders is currently unknown. On a practical note, shortening the diagnostic delay and the time to an appropriate treatment approach probably represents the most urgent issue, even in light of the great impact of HES on the quality of life of affected patients. The present document represents the first action that the Italian Society of Allergy, Asthma, and Clinical Immunology (SIAAIC) has finalized within a wider project aiming to establish a collaborative national network on HES (InHES—Italian Network on HES) for patients and physicians. The first step of the project could not but focus on defining a common language as well as sharing with all of the medical community an update on the most recent advances in the field. In fact, the existing literature has been carefully reviewed in order to critically integrate the different views on the topic and derive practical recommendations on disease identification and treatment approaches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses the evaluation of oral immunotherapy in hazelnut allergy among pediatric patients in Toulouse, France. The study aimed to desensitize patients through a hazelnut OIT protocol, with 52.2% of patients considered desensitized after a year. Adverse events during home OIT were mostly mild, but there was a high discontinuation rate. Lower IgE levels were associated with a higher likelihood of desensitization, and predictive thresholds for desensitization were established. Further studies with larger sample sizes are recommended to confirm these results. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the basophil activation test (BAT) as a diagnostic tool for IgE-mediated allergies, particularly in food allergies. The European Academy of Allergy & Clinical Immunology (EAACI) recommends using BAT before oral food challenges and has published a consensus report to standardize BAT protocols. The article highlights the importance of considering basophil counts in BAT analysis to ensure confidence in test results, especially for patients with low basophil counts or low-volume samples. The authors propose a statistical approach to cutoffs to address variations in CD63+ activation caused by limited basophil counts, emphasizing the significance of statistical methodology in increasing clinical confidence in BAT for allergy diagnosis. [Extracted from the article]

Interleukin-17 (IL-17), a pivotal cytokine in immune regulation, has attracted significant attention in recent years due to its roles in various physiological and pathological processes. This review explores IL-17 in immunological context, emphasizing its structure, production, and signaling pathways. Specifically, we explore its involvement in inflammatory diseases and autoimmune diseases, with a notable focus on its emerging implications in cardiovascular system. Through an array of research insights, IL-17 displays multifaceted functions yet awaiting comprehensive discovery. Highlighting therapeutic avenues, we scrutinize the efficacy and clinical application of four marketed IL-17 mAbs along other targeted therapies, emphasizing their potential in immune-mediated disease management. Additionally, we discussed the novel IL-17D-CD93 axis, elucidating recent breakthroughs in their biological function and clinical implications, inviting prospects for transformative advancements in immunology and beyond. • Illuminating IL-17 : Discussing its structure, production mechanisms, and intricate signaling pathways. • IL-17 in immunological contexts: Its role in in inflammatory responses, autoimmune diseases, and cardiovascular diseases. • Anti-IL-17 therapiesL Assessing anti-IL-17 monoclonal antibodies for efficacy in managing immune-mediated diseases. • IL-17D's novel role and its receptor CD93: Discovering their transformative potentials in immunology and clinical practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Epidemiological studies have explored the relationship between allergic diseases and cancer risk or prognosis in AllergoOncology. Some studies suggest an inverse association, but uncertainties remain, including in IgE‐mediated diseases and glioma. Allergic disease stems from a Th2‐biased immune response to allergens in predisposed atopic individuals. Allergic disorders vary in phenotype, genotype and endotype, affecting their pathophysiology. Beyond clinical manifestation and commonly used clinical markers, there is ongoing research to identify novel biomarkers for allergy diagnosis, monitoring, severity assessment and treatment. Gliomas, the most common and diverse brain tumours, have in parallel undergone changes in classification over time, with specific molecular biomarkers defining glioma subtypes. Gliomas exhibit a complex tumour‐immune interphase and distinct immune microenvironment features. Immunotherapy and targeted therapy hold promise for primary brain tumour treatment, but require more specific and effective approaches. Animal studies indicate allergic airway inflammation may delay glioma progression. This collaborative European Academy of Allergy and Clinical Immunology (EAACI) and European Association of Neuro‐Oncology (EANO) Position Paper summarizes recent advances and emerging biomarkers for refined allergy and adult‐type diffuse glioma classification to inform future epidemiological and clinical studies. Future research is needed to enhance our understanding of immune–glioma interactions to ultimately improve patient prognosis and survival. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Peri‐operative anaphylaxis is a rare but potentially catastrophic event which must be considered whenever unexpected and significant cardiovascular or respiratory compromise occurs during anaesthesia. The Resuscitation Council UK algorithm for peri‐operative anaphylaxis highlights the importance of early intravenous adrenaline and fluid resuscitation and provides guidance on the treatment of refractory anaphylaxis and immediate follow‐up. This algorithm is endorsed by the Royal College of Anaesthetists, Association of Anaesthetists, British Society of Allergy and Clinical Immunology and Clinical Immunology Professional Network of the British Society for Immunology. This document was produced by the Perioperative Allergy Network steering committee in collaboration with the Resuscitation Council UK. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‑19) pandemic has been the biggest threat to humankind during the last 3 years. It has caused the loss of more than 6.9 million precious lives across the world. The only method by which the massacre could be stopped was by mass vaccination or mass immunization. The patients suffering from autoimmune rheumatic disorders (AIRDs) and treated with immunosuppressants were the high‑priority candidates for vaccination. However, the data regarding the efficacy of COVID‑19 vaccines in this group of patients are very less. Hence, this study was planned to study the immunogenicity of Covishield in patients with AIRDs attending the rheumatology OPD at DMCH, Ludhiana. Materials and Methods: It was a prospective cohort study and was planned by the Department of Biochemistry and Department of Clinical Immunology and Rheumatology at Dayanand Medical College and Hospital, Ludhiana. Fifty patients with AIRDs attending the DMCH rheumatology OPD and 52 age and sex‑matched healthy controls who had received two doses of Covishield vaccine were included in this study. Patients having any other immunosuppressive conditions like uncontrolled diabetes, hepatitis, malignancy or HIV were excluded. Patients who had suffered from previous laboratory‑confirmed COVID‑19 infection (by RT‑PCR) were also excluded. Blood samples were collected following all aseptic precautions from patients and controls on the 28th day after administration of a second dose of Covishield vaccine and total antibodies to the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 spike (S) protein receptor binding domain was measured using Elecsys Anti‑SARS‑CoV‑2 S kit from Roche. Results: It was observed that no significant difference was there in antibody titre between cases and controls (6213 ± 4418 vs. 8331 ± 7979, P = 0.1022). It was also observed that no statistically significant difference in antibody titre in cases without prednisolone and those taking treatment with prednisolone was found (P = 0.7058). A similar observation was found in terms of methotrexate also (P = 0.457). No significant difference in antibody titres was there when compared with controls (for prednisolone, P = 0.169, for methotrexate, P = 0.078). We found that only the patients receiving mycophenolate mofetil showed a statistically significant decrease in antibody titre in comparison to healthy controls (P = 0.03). Our study showed no statistically significant difference in antibody titres between patients suffering from different AIRDs. Conclusion: Our study supplements the fact that patients with AIRDs in India can receive Covishield as the primary vaccine against COVID‑19 without concerns regarding decreased immunogenicity or increased adverse effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: We recently adopted a guideline for chronic cough in children in the Egyptian health system. Adapting clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) to the local healthcare setting is a valid alternative to de-novo development that can improve their uptake and implementation without demanding a substantial drain on resources. The objective of this study was to adapt evidence-based recommendations from global high-quality CPGs for children with a chronic cough to suit the Egyptian healthcare context. Methods: We followed the Adapted ADAPTE methodological framework for guideline adaptation. This process includes three phases: set-up, adaptation, and finalization. A guideline adaptation group (GAG) and an external review group including clinical content experts and methodologists conducted the process. Results: The GAG adapted 10 sections of recommendations from three original CPG(s) including (i) the American College of Chest Physicians (ACCP) 2006–2020, (ii) the European Respiratory Society (ERS) 2019, (iii) the Korean Academy of Asthma, Allergy and Clinical Immunology (KAAACI) 2018. A set of CPG implementation tools was added to enhance implementability including an algorithm, a slide presentation for clinical diagnosis, investigations and treatment of chronic cough, patient education, and online resources. Conclusion: The adapted CPG provides pediatricians and related healthcare workers with applicable evidence-based recommendations for chronic cough in children in Egypt. The project also highlighted the utility of Adapted ADAPTE and the invaluable collaboration between the clinical and methodological experts for the adaptation of pediatric national guidelines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article details the development of immunology as a scientific discipline based on basic research and clinical application in Turkey. Due to the valiant efforts of the Turkish Society of Immunology (TSI), immunology has become a fundamental discipline in its own right in Turkey. Immunology Laboratories were established at İstanbul Medical School, Cerrahpaşa Medical School, and Hacettepe Medical School in 1970. Since 1974, TSI has been the driving force organizing the '”National Immunology Congress” and joint meetings with international immunology and inborn errors of immunity (IEIs) centers. The immunological education program was established in some of Turkey’s most prominent medical schools during the 2000-2001 academic year. Following the establishment of the immunological programs, all facets of modern immunology and clinical medicine began to diverge. Subsequently, the Turkish National Society of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, and Clinical Immunology Society were established and initiated to organize congresses, educational meetings, courses, and webinars. With the assistance of international experts, Turkish clinical immunologists defined many gene defects in Turkish patients. As clinicians gained additional immunological experience, new techniques and practices that allowed for better diagnosis and treatment of a larger variety of different immunodeficiencies were developed. Beginning in 2011, the Ministry of Health started to regulate patient care by allowing pediatric/adult allergists and immunologists to provide patient care at the tertiary level. Screening tests for IEIs and intravenous or subcutaneous immunoglobulin replacement treatment are now being offered to all patients. Human stem cell therapy treatments are accessible for patients with T-cell deficiency, and available monoclonal therapies are provided to IEIs patients in Turkey [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A systematic review and meta-analysis compared the efficacy and safety of subcutaneous immunotherapy (SCIT) and sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) in treating allergic rhinitis. The study found that SCIT had a significantly lower symptom score compared to SLIT, but there was no significant difference in medication scores between the two groups. Patients treated with SCIT had a higher incidence of systemic reaction grades 3 and 4 compared to SLIT. While SCIT is more effective in controlling symptoms, clinicians should consider patient preference, adherence, convenience, and cost-effectiveness when choosing a treatment. Further research is needed in this area. [Extracted from the article]

This article discusses the evaluation of inguinal and axillary lymph node size distribution for intralymphatic injection, a treatment for allergic rhinoconjunctivitis. The study measured the long-axis diameters of the largest lymph nodes in these areas in 133 subjects who underwent computed tomography scans. The results showed that the inguinal and axillary lymph nodes were sufficiently large for intralymphatic injection in most subjects, and there were no significant differences in size between the right and left sides. Further studies are needed to determine the exact size distribution of superficial lymph nodes on the trunk, which are potential targets for this treatment. [Extracted from the article]

This article discusses the effectiveness and safety of upadacitinib, a selective JAK1 inhibitor, for pediatric patients with moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis (AD) who did not respond to dupilumab treatment. The study included 12 patients aged 6-14 who had failed conventional topical corticosteroid treatment and had a history of poor response to dupilumab. Significant improvements were observed in various clinical endpoints, including Eczema Area and Severity Index (EASI), Numerical Rating Scale (NRS), and Children's Dermatology Life Quality Index (CDLQI). Adverse events were generally mild, with acne being the most common. Infections were reported in 25% of patients, highlighting a potential risk for younger patients. One serious adverse event of appendicitis was reported, although a direct causal relationship with upadacitinib remains unclear. Routine laboratory monitoring is important for detecting and managing adverse events. One patient developed vitiligo during treatment, which may be attributed to the common coexistence of AD and vitiligo rather than being an adverse effect of upadacitinib. The study acknowledges limitations such as the small sample size and lack of a control group, emphasizing the need for long-term follow-up to assess the sustained efficacy and safety of upadacitinib in pediatric patients. [Extracted from the article]

The article "Clinical and Experimental Immunology: Highlights of 2023" provides a summary of the research and achievements published in the journal throughout the year. It mentions the collaboration with the Federation of Clinical Immunology Societies (FOCIS) 2023 Annual Meeting and the compilation of research articles covering various fields of immunology. The article highlights specific studies on topics such as pembrolizumab-induced myasthenia gravis, lysophosphatidic acid treatment for neuropsychiatric systemic lupus erythematosus, and the impact of immunopeptide on pancreas homeostasis. It also mentions the introduction of new review series on unconventional T cells, inborn errors of immunity, and regulatory T cell enhancing approaches. The article concludes by expressing gratitude to the contributors and supporters of the journal. The document is a list of references to various articles on topics related to immunology, covering subjects such as leukocyte trafficking, unconventional T cells, innate lymphoid cells in transplantation, regulatory T-cell dysfunction, FOXP3+ regulators of immune responses, inborn errors of immunity, mutation types in immune disorders, regulatory T-cell enhancing approaches, and the role of B cells in granulomatosis with polyangiitis and COVID-19. [Extracted from the article]

This article discusses a case of successful treatment of pemphigus foliaceus (PF), a rare autoimmune blistering dermatosis, with upadacitinib. The patient had been suffering from the disease for 8 years with recurrent severe relapses. Previous treatments with corticosteroids and immunosuppressive drugs had failed to control the disease. However, treatment with upadacitinib resulted in the resolution of skin lesions and a significant improvement in the patient's quality of life. The mechanisms by which upadacitinib exerts its effect in PF are still unknown, but it is believed to inhibit the proliferation and differentiation of T and B cells. Further studies are needed to determine the safety of upadacitinib in elderly adults with comorbidities. [Extracted from the article]

Introduction: Guidelines recommend treating asthma exacerbations (AAEs) with bronchodilators combined with inhaled and/or systemic corticosteroids. Indications for antibiotic prescriptions for AAEs are usually not incorporated although the literature shows antibiotics are frequently prescribed. Aim: To investigate the antibiotic prescription rates in AAEs and explore the possible determining factors of those practices. Methods: A digital survey was created to determine the antibiotic prescription rates in AAEs and the influencing factors for the prescription practices. The survey was distributed among European academy of allergy and clinical immunology (EAACI) members by mass emailing and through regional/national societies in the Netherlands, Italy, Greece, and Poland. Furthermore, we retrieved local antibiotic prescription rates. Results: In total, 252 participants completed the survey. Respondents stated that there is a lack of guidelines to prescribe antibiotics in AAEs. The median antibiotic prescription rate in this study was 19% [IQR: 0%–40%] and was significantly different between 4 professions: paediatrics 0% [IQR: 0%–37%], pulmonologists 25% [IQR: 10%–50%], general practitioners 25% [IQR: 0%–50%], and allergologists 17% [IQR: 0%–33%]) (p = 0.046). Additional diagnostic tests were performed in 71.4% of patients before prescription and the most common antibiotic classes prescribed were macrolides (46.0%) and penicillin (42.9%). Important clinical factors for health care providers to prescribe antibiotics were colorised/purulent sputum, abnormal lung sounds during auscultation, fever, and presence of comorbidities. Conclusion: In 19% of patients with AAEs, antibiotics were prescribed in various classes with a broad range among different subspecialities. This study stresses the urgency to compose evidence‐based guidelines to aim for more rational antibiotic prescriptions for AAE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The 2014 estimates of prevalence of food allergy (FA) in Europe published by the European Academy of Allergy and Clinical Immunology included only the eight so‐called big foods (cow's milk/egg/wheat/soy/peanut/tree nuts/fish/shellfish). Those estimates have recently been updated. Complementing this, we sought to identify and estimate the prevalence of allergy to other foods that have been reported during the last decade. Methods: Six databases were searched for studies published 2012–2021. Random‐effects meta‐analysis was performed to derive pooled prevalence of allergy to each food. Results: Twenty‐seven studies were included, containing a total of 66 FAs. Among the most frequently reported FAs, the lifetime and point prevalence range of self‐reported kiwi allergy was 0.1%–1.0% and 0.2%–8.1%, respectively, while the food challenge (FC)‐verified kiwi allergy point prevalence range was 0.01%–0.10%. The point prevalence range for self‐reported peach allergy was 0.2%–3.2%, while the range for FC‐verified peach allergy was 0.02%–0.05%. The lifetime and point prevalence range for self‐reported tomato allergy was 0.01%–1.8% and 0.2%–2.1%, respectively. Conclusion: Allergy to some foods traditionally not considered important are now emerging as relevant FAs. The focus on FA in Europe should not be limited to the so‐called eight big FA, but extended to other types of foods which need to be considered both for clinical purposes and population risk assessment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In 2014, the European Academy of Allergy and Clinical Immunology (EAACI) published the first systematic review that summarized the prevalence of food allergy (FA) and food sensitization in Europe for studies published 2000–2012. However, only summary estimates for tree nut allergy (TNA) were feasible in that work. In the current update of that systematic review, we summarized the prevalence of tree nut allergy/sensitization to individual tree nuts. Six databases were searched for relevant papers published 2012–2021 and 17 eligible studies were added to the 15 studies already identified between 2000 and 2012, giving a total of 32 studies. Of the investigated tree nuts, meta‐analysis was possible for hazelnut, walnut, almond, and in few cases, for cashew, and Brazil nut. The lifetime self‐reported prevalence was 0.8% (95% CI 0.5–1.1) for hazelnut and 0.4% (0.2–0.9) for walnut. The point self‐reported prevalence was 4.0% (2.9–5.2) for hazelnut, 3.4% (2.0–4.9) for Brazil nut, 2.0% (1.1–2.9) for almond, and 1.8% (1.1–2.5) for walnut. Point prevalence of food challenge‐confirmed TNA was 0.04% (0.0–0.1) for hazelnut and 0.02% (0.01–0.1) for walnut. Due to paucity of data, we could not identify any meaningful and consistent differences across age groups and European regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The European Academy of Allergy and Clinical Immunology (EAACI) is updating the Guidelines on Food Allergy Diagnosis. We aimed to undertake a systematic review of the literature with meta‐analyses to assess the accuracy of diagnostic tests for IgE‐mediated food allergy. We searched three databases (Cochrane CENTRAL (Trials), MEDLINE (OVID) and Embase (OVID)) for diagnostic test accuracy studies published between 1 October 2012 and 30 June 2021 according to a previously published protocol (CRD42021259186). We independently screened abstracts, extracted data from full texts and assessed risk of bias with QUADRAS 2 tool in duplicate. Meta‐analyses were undertaken for food‐test combinations for which three or more studies were available. A total of 149 studies comprising 24,489 patients met the inclusion criteria and they were generally heterogeneous. 60.4% of studies were in children ≤12 years of age, 54.3% were undertaken in Europe, ≥95% were conducted in a specialized paediatric or allergy clinical setting and all included oral food challenge in at least a percentage of enrolled patients, in 21.5% double‐blind placebo‐controlled food challenges. Skin prick test (SPT) with fresh cow's milk and raw egg had high sensitivity (90% and 94%) for milk and cooked egg allergies. Specific IgE (sIgE) to individual components had high specificity: Ara h 2‐sIgE had 92%, Cor a 14‐sIgE 95%, Ana o 3‐sIgE 94%, casein‐sIgE 93%, ovomucoid‐sIgE 92/91% for the diagnosis of peanut, hazelnut, cashew, cow's milk and raw/cooked egg allergies, respectively. The basophil activation test (BAT) was highly specific for the diagnosis of peanut (90%) and sesame (93%) allergies. In conclusion, SPT and specific IgE to extracts had high sensitivity whereas specific IgE to components and BAT had high specificity to support the diagnosis of individual food allergies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

La réforme du 3e cycle des études médicales de 2017 a introduit le concept d'autonomie supervisée avec la création d'un nouveau statut de docteur junior (DJ). L'objectif de ce travail était d'interroger la première promotion de DJ de médecine interne et immunologie clinique (MIIC) concernant le déroulement et la mise en place de cette dernière année d'internat. Les DJ du diplôme d'études spécialisées de MIIC étaient invités à répondre à une enquête en ligne anonyme, sollicités par mail et via les réseaux sociaux. Le questionnaire a recueilli 36 réponses sur une cinquantaine de DJ estimés. La majorité des DJ consacrait plus de 70 % de leur temps en hospitalisation conventionnelle et moins de 20 % en hospitalisation programmée. La majorité aurait aimé faire davantage de consultation et d'avis. Le temps de travail hebdomadaire n'était pas respecté pour la majorité des DJ. Les temps de formation académiques et personnels n'étaient pas respectés pour 77,8 % d'entre eux. Au total, 75 % étaient satisfaits de l'autonomisation et 88,6 % estimaient que la transition avec le post-internat serait plus aisée grâce à la phase de consolidation. Un tiers rapportait que leur stage avait confirmé leur appréhension à exercer en tant qu'interniste voire que celle-ci pouvait remettre en question leur exercice futur. Cette enquête est un premier état des lieux concernant la mise en place de l'année de DJ dans le DES de MIIC. Un travail collectif autour de cette dernière année d'internat semble être indispensable pour garantir l'épanouissement personnel et professionnel des jeunes internistes. The 2017 reform of the 3rd cycle of medical studies introduced the concept of supervised autonomy with the creation of a new junior doctor (JD) status. The aim of this work was to interview the first class of JDs in internal medicine and clinical immunology (IMCI) regarding the progress and implementation of this final year of internship. The IMCI JDs were invited to complete an anonymous online survey, contacted by email and social networks. The questionnaire received 36 responses out of an estimated fifty JDs. The majority of JDs spent more than 70% of their time on conventional hospitalisation and less than 20% on scheduled hospitalisation. Most of them would have preferred to do more consultations and provide expert counsels. Weekly working hours were not respected for the majority of JDs. Personal education and academic formation were not respected for 77.8% of JDs. Overall, 75% were satisfied with their empowerment and 88.6% felt that the transition to post residency would be easier with the consolidation phase. A third reported that their residency had confirmed their apprehension about practising as an internist, and even that this apprehension might call into question their future practice. This survey is an initial assessment of the implementation of the JD year in the IMCI residency. A collective effort around this last year of internship seems to be essential to ensure the personal and professional development of young internists. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Immunology examination is an abstract boring medical professional course. According to the characteristics of this course, this paper uses mixed teaching and takes CBL as the basis to dig deeply into the ideological and political elements of this course. Starting from the cultivating a comprehensive development of people, from three aspects, namely the cultural foundation, independent development and society participation to consider, implementation of "knowledge" and "leading value" all-round education go hand in hand. To cultivate medical students who skilled in medicine, with correct outlook on life and values, so as to realize the fundamental task of cultivating morality and cultivating people. It provides an empirical basis for the teaching reform of "curriculum ideology and politics" of "clinical immunology examination technology". [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The last two decades have witnessed a major revolution in the field of tumor immunology including clinical progress using various immunotherapy strategies. These advances have highlighted the potential for approaches that harness the power of the immune system to fight against cancer. While cancer immunotherapies have shown significant clinical successes, patient responses vary widely due to the complex and heterogeneous nature of tumors and immune responses, calling for reliable biomarkers and therapeutic strategies to maximize the benefits of immunotherapy. Especially, stratifying responding individuals from non‐responders during the early stages of treatment could help avoid long‐term damage and tailor personalized treatments. In efforts to develop non‐invasive means for accurately evaluating and predicting tumor response to immunotherapy, multiple affinity‐based agents targeting immune cell markers and checkpoint molecules have been developed and advanced to clinical trials. In addition, researchers have recently turned their attention to substrate and activity‐based imaging probes that can provide real‐time, functional assessment of immune response to treatment. Here, we highlight some of those recently designed probes that image functional proteases as biomarkers of cancer immunotherapy with a focus on their chemical design and detection modalities and discuss challenges and opportunities for the development of imaging tools utilized in cancer immunotherapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This letter discusses the ongoing debate on the best way to apply quality control (QC) procedures for infectious serology tests. Some authors recommend a statistical approach, while others believe that less rigorous QC procedures can be used. The authors evaluated the Six Sigma approach for an Electro-chemiluminescence immunoassay (ECLIA) of toxoplasmosis serology. They found that the designed QC procedure based on low positive QC was more sensitive to systematic errors than the kit-QC for the Toxo IgM assay. The study demonstrates that a Six Sigma driven QC procedure can be developed for qualitative infectious serology tests if the assay is linear and well-designed and commutable QC materials are used. [Extracted from the article]

Objective: Analyze feelings about allergen-specific immunotherapy on Twitter using the VADER model VADER (Valence Aware Dictionary and sEntiment Reasoner) model. Methods: tweets related to specific allergen immunotherapy were obtained through the Twitter Application Programming Interface (API). The keywords "allergy shot" were used between January 1, 2012, and December 31, 2022. The data was processed by removing URLs, usernames, hashtags, multiple spaces, and duplicate tweets. Subsequently, a sentiment analysis was performed using the VADER model. Results: A total of 34,711 tweets were retrieved, of which 1928 were eliminated. Of the remaining 32,783 tweets, 32.41% expressed a negative sentiment, 31.11% expressed a neutral sentiment, and 36.47% expressed a positive sentiment, with an average polarity of 0.02751 (neutral) over the 11-year period. Conclusions: The average polarity of tweets about allergen-specific immunotherapy is neutral over the 11 years analyzed. There was an annual increase in the average polarity over the years, with 2017, 2018, and 2022 having positive polarity averages. Additionally, the number of tweets decreased over time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The prevalence and complexity of allergic diseases have increased in recent decades, leading to a significant burden for patients and their families. However, training in Allergy and Clinical Immunology (ACI) varies worldwide, with significant heterogeneity between countries. This variability may limit the number of healthcare professionals and researchers undergoing ACI training in the future. To address this, the European Academy of Allergy and Clinical Immunology (EAACI) has developed a mentorship program to support young professionals in enhancing their skills and network. The program has been successful and may serve as a model for other scientific organizations in the ACI field. [Extracted from the article]

Four in five children with inborn errors of immunity globally remain undiagnosed. These figures are disproportionally high in low-income countries like Ethiopia. Apart from the inclusion of basic overviews of these disorders in to postgraduate pediatric curricula, little effort has been placed in to establishing clinical immunology training programs. This report summarizes the existing epidemiology of inborn errors of immunity in Ethiopia, unique presentations in Ethiopian children, challenges faced in diagnosing them, and efforts to improve their management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Gerundium is the property of University of Debrecen and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Endogenous retroviruses (ERVs) make up approximately 8% of the human genome and have important roles in human evolution, development, and diseases. Reactivating ERVs can enhance tumor immunogenicity and trigger immune responses against cancer cells. ERVs can also be used to develop mRNA delivery systems and tumor-specific expression vectors for clinical therapy. The reactivation of ERVs shows promise for clinical and immunological applications. [Extracted from the article]

BackgroundInborn errors of immunity (IEI) are a group of genetic disorders that impair the immune system, with over 400 genes described so far, and hundreds more to be discovered. To facilitate the search for new genes, we need a way to prioritize among all the genes in the genome those most likely to play an important role in immunity.ResultsHere we identify a new list of genes by linking known IEI genes to new ones by using open-source databases of protein-protein interactions, post-translational modifications, and transcriptional regulation. We analyze this new set of 2,530 IEI-related genes for their tolerance of genetic variation and by their expression levels in various immune cell types.ConclusionsBy merging genes derived from protein interactions of known IEI genes with transcriptional data, we offer a new list of candidate genes that may play a role in as-yet undiscovered IEIs.

This European Academy of Allergy and Clinical Immunology guideline provides recommendations for diagnosing IgE‐mediated food allergy and was developed using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluations (GRADE) approach. Food allergy diagnosis starts with an allergy‐focused clinical history followed by tests to determine IgE sensitization, such as serum allergen‐specific IgE (sIgE) and skin prick test (SPT), and the basophil activation test (BAT), if available. Evidence for IgE sensitization should be sought for any suspected foods. The diagnosis of allergy to some foods, such as peanut and cashew nut, is well supported by SPT and serum sIgE, whereas there are less data and the performance of these tests is poorer for other foods, such as wheat and soya. The measurement of sIgE to allergen components such as Ara h 2 from peanut, Cor a 14 from hazelnut and Ana o 3 from cashew can be useful to further support the diagnosis, especially in pollen‐sensitized individuals. BAT to peanut and sesame can be used additionally. The reference standard for food allergy diagnosis is the oral food challenge (OFC). OFC should be performed in equivocal cases. For practical reasons, open challenges are suitable in most cases. Reassessment of food allergic children with allergy tests and/or OFCs periodically over time will enable reintroduction of food into the diet in the case of spontaneous acquisition of oral tolerance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: There is clear evidence that the prevalence of primary antibody deficiency (PAD) is higher in patients with recurrent and chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) than in the general population. The purpose of this multi‐institutional and multidisciplinary evidence‐based review with recommendations (EBRR) is to thoroughly review the literature on rhinosinusitis with PAD, summarize the existing evidence, and provide recommendations on the evaluation and management of rhinosinusitis in patients with PAD. Methods: The PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane databases were systematically reviewed from inception through August 2022. Studies on the evaluation and management of rhinosinusitis in PAD patients were included. An iterative review process was utilized in accordance with EBRR guidelines. Levels of evidence and recommendations on the evaluation and management principles for PAD were generated. Results: A total of 42 studies were included in this evidence‐based review. These studies were evaluated on incidence of PAD in rhinosinusitis patients, incidence of rhinosinusitis in PAD patients, and on the different treatment modalities used and their outcome. The aggregate quality of evidence was varied across reviewed domains. Conclusion: Based on the currently available evidence, PAD can occur in up to 50% of patients with recalcitrant CRS. Despite the presence of multiple studies addressing rhinosinusitis and PAD, the level of evidence supporting different treatment options continues to be lacking. Optimal management requires a multidisciplinary approach through collaboration with clinical immunology. There is need for higher‐level studies that compare different treatments in patients with PAD and rhinosinusitis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]