IgG subclass antibodies in response to house dust mite immunotherapy.

The data obtained so far indicate that house dust mite immunotherapy stimulates an IgG antibody response that is predominantly of IgG4 subclass. Early in the course, however, a rise in IgG1 antibodies can be detected, but as treatment goes on IgG4 becomes more prominent. The association between the development of IgG4 antibodies and objectively measured clinical improvements resulting from immunotherapy, strongly suggests that IgG4 antibodies might exert a blocking effect on IgE-mediated immediate hypersensitivity.