Dictionary of Allergies .. Ascaris suum

Ascaris suum is a worm which live in the small intestine on partially digested food of the host. The eggs are passed in the faeces, form larvae in the soil and become infective. They live in the intestine of the host for about 12-18 months. Symptoms of ascariasis may include allergic reactions, asthmatic attacks and oedema of the lips. Ascaris is a prominent parasite where the sanitation is poor. Ascariasis can cause substantially raised total IgE (Levels up to 10-20000 KU/L). Cross reactivity with other nematodes such as Toxocara and Filaria could be expected. The symbol of Ascaris suum in RAST is p1. Allergen p1 is produced by coupling an extract of adult Ascaris suum worms from swine to activated paper discs.

References

Shephard EG, Macfarlane CM, Joubert JR..A radioallergosorbent test (RAST) for Ascaris lumbricoides. Allergy 37 (1982), p. 231-239.