IgE-Positive Mast Cells Play a Central Role in Nasal Allergic Disease

Mast cells are regularly found in the nasal mucosa of healthy persons. Their number increases in allergic and infections rhinitis. With the help of immunohistochemical techniques, cell surface-bound IgE antibodies within a nasal specimen in allergic rhinitis can be distinguished from other non-IgE-associated pathomechanisms. Using conventional mast cell staining techniques together with immunohistochemistry, we were able to demonstrate that IgE-associated cells within the allergic nasal mucosa predominantly resemble mast cells. They increase in number and migrate into the respiratory epithelium due to allergen exposure and show a high cell turnover and degranulation rate. Their number does not correlate with serum IgE levels. These findings suggest that mast cells not only represent the major mediator cells in Type I allergic reactions, but also the transport media for IgE antibodies produced in regional lymphoid tissues.