Abstract
INTRODUCTION:
Bacille Calmette-Guérin (BCG) downmodulates allergen-specific IgE levels and prevents other atopic responses in experimental models but fails to protect against respiratory allergies. Human responsiveness to BCG is variable and may interfere with protection.
METHODS:
Multivariate models were evaluated to test the possible effect of responsiveness (assessed by IFN-γ production) to BCG revaccination on the modulation of total and allergen-specific serum IgE levels in healthy volunteers participating in a randomized controlled trial.
RESULTS:
Serum total or Derp-specific IgE levels did not change regardless of the increase in IFN-γ levels.
CONCLUSIONS:
BCG responsiveness does not affect protection against atopy.
Keywords:
Allergy; Atopy; Tuberculosis vaccine
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