ABSTRACT
I. Introduction It is proposed in this chapter to examine the proposition that IgE plays a role in the causation of asthma, and to attempt to define the nature of this role. The worth of allergen avoidance as a primary and secondary preventative measure for asthma will then be examined, as will the role of allergen immunotherapy. There will follow an account of studies of clinical efficacy and controversies surrounding the use of anti-IgE therapy for asthma. The chapter will conclude with an overview of the definition of anaphylaxis and its immediate and longer-term management.
