IgG4 antibodies in hay fever patients. Difference in IgG4 response to tree pollen and grass pollen allergens

Total IgE and IgE and IgG4 antibodies to offending allergens were studied in 118 hay fever patients allergic to tree pollen and grass pollen allergens. No difference in the level of total IgE and IgE antibodies was found between these two groups while the IgG4 antibody level was significantly higher in tree pollen allergic patients. It is suggested that the IgG4 antibodies to tree pollen allergens can be stimulated by structurally related allergens of vegetable food and are probably involved in tree pollen-associated food hypersensitivity.