Use of IgE antibody determinations in cutaneous Coelenterate envenomations.

Elevated levels of serum anti-sea nettle venom IgE persisted for several years in two patients who had exaggerated reactions to jellyfish (sea nettle, Chrysaora quinquecirrha) stings. These antibodies also cross reacted with Portuguese man-of war venom. The determination of increased antigen specific IgE concentrations may be of value in identifying patients "at risk" or in diagnosing stings by "unseen" animals. Because of the increased frequency of IgE radioallergosorbent testing (RAST) in dermatologic practice, a brief review of the use of this test is included.