Chinese expert consensus on allergen component resolved diagnosis.

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.