Distribution of immunoglobulin G and E antibody levels to salivary gland extracts of Aedes albopictus (Diptera: Culicidae) in several age groups of a Japanese population.

A total of 300 Japanese people from 2 wk to 98 yr of age were tested for immunoglobulin (Ig) G and E antibodies to salivary gland extracts of Aedes albopictus (Skuse) mosquitoes by an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Almost all had IgG antibodies. The mean IgG antibody levels increased with age up to 2 yr and then leveled off, indicating a relatively frequent exposure to Aedes-mosquito bites. Distribution patterns of IgE antibody levels were similar among all age groups. The antibody status involved in mosquito allergy, especially in the five-stage sequence of skin reactivity, is discussed.