The indirect rat mast cell degranulation test reconsidered.
The indirect rat mast cell degranulation test for the detection of human reaginic antibodies was reinvestigated. When the mast cells were incubated with human reaginic serum at concentrations exceeding approximately 3%, a massive, non-specific histamine release occurred, irrespective of the presence or absence of allergen. At tolerated serum concentrations (below 3%), the allergen concentration did not influence the release process. We conclude that the indirect rat mast cell test is not applicable as an alternative test system for the study of immediate hypersensitivity in humans.