Cross-reactive carbohydrate determinants and their relevance to in vitro allergy diagnostics
In this expert webinar, Dr. Friedrich Altmann, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna, discusses the importance of cross-reactive carbohydrate determinants (CCD) for in vitro allergy diagnostics. CCDs are carbohydrate molecules present on proteins derived from plants, insects, and microorganisms. It is widely accepted that sensitization to CCDs is of no clinical relevance. However, IgE antibodies directed against CCDs bind to a ubiquitous epitope and are thus cross-reactive. As a result, individuals with allergies may show false-positive results in allergy tests due to the presence of CCDs in the testing materials. This can lead to misdiagnosis and inappropriate treatment.
CCDs have been found to be particularly relevant in the diagnosis of pollen, food, and insect venom allergies. Understanding the role of CCDs in allergy diagnostics can help healthcare professionals make more informed decisions about testing and treatment options for their patients.
Key learning objectives
- Describe the different types of glycosylations
- Understand the relevance of glycosylations in allergy
- Discuss cross-reactive carbohydrate determinants and their impact on liquid- and solid-phase in vitro allergy diagnostic technologies
Who should attend
Laboratorians, clinicians, pathologists.