Abstract

The ALCAT (Antigen Leukocyte Cellular Antibody Test) is a procedure that uses electronic hematology instrumentation and computerized data analysis for monitoring changes in leucocyte volume and number, caused by antigen stimulation in vitro. Correlation of ALCAT results with anamnesis and skin tests amounts to about 80%. Thus, the ALCAT method requires factor studies, which may alter the sensitivity of leucocytes in contact with antigens in vitro and may diminish to a certain degree positive diagnoses. This study evaluated the modifying influence of glycoproteins. Alpha-glycoprotein fraction C obtained from bovine blood, according to Mowbray, added to blood samples investigated by ALCAT, yields false negative results in patients hypersensitive towards food allergens. This observation points to certain limitations in the diagnostic value of ALCAT in patients with an increased glycoproteins content.

Keywords: Antigen Leucocyte Cellular Antibody Test (ALCAT), fraction-C of alpha glycoproteins