The molecular basis of IgE antibody binding to thiopentone. Binding of IgE from thiopentone-allergic and non-allergic subjects.

Thiopentone-specific IgE antibodies from the sera of subjects who experienced a life-threatening anaphylactic reaction to the drug and IgE antibodies that cross-react with thiopentone via substituted ammonium groups in either cyclic or acyclic form, were studied by direct binding immunoassays and quantitative hapten inhibition methods. Findings provided an explanation for the apparent 'non-specific' nature of some IgE antibody reactions with thiopentone and reinforce the conclusion that the thiopentone IgE immunoassay is a valuable aid in the diagnosis of immediate allergic reactions to the drug.