Skin testing for allergic diseases: techniques, indications and interpretations.
Despite significant strides in serologic methodologies, the skin test, when properly done, has remained the single most sensitive and practical assay for specific dermal-bound reaginic antibody. Its value could further be enhanced if and when characterization and standardization of the allergen extracts become a reality. While the technique is simple, the indications and interpretations of allergy skin tests required the expertise of well-trained allergists. A positive skin reaction is no more than a mere supportive laboratory aid in the diagnosis of allergic disease, which is arrived at through a carefully taken detailed history and a meticulously done physical examination.
D000485:Allergens; D005189:False Positive Reactions; D006801:Humans; D006967:Hypersensitivity / Q000175:diagnosis*; D012882:Skin Tests / Q000379:methods*
D000485:Allergens