Comparison of intradermal dilutional testing, skin prick testing, and modified quantitative testing for common allergens.
OBJECTIVE
To compare and correlate wheal size using the Multi-Test II applicator with the endpoint obtained by intradermal dilutional testing (IDT) for 5 common allergens. To examine the safety of modified quantitative testing (MQT) for determining immunotherapy starting doses.


METHODS
Prospective comparative clinical study.


METHODS
A total of 134 subjects were simultaneously skin tested for immediate hypersensitivity using the Multi-Test II device and IDT.


RESULTS
There was a 77% concordance between results from IDT and results from MQT. When there was a difference, MQT predicted a safer endpoint for starting immunotherapy in all but 2 cases.


CONCLUSIONS
Wheal size by SPT is predictive of endpoint by IDT. MQT is nearly as effective as formal IDT in determining endpoint.


CONCLUSIONS
Modified quantitative testing appears to be a safe alternative to IDT for determining starting doses for immunotherapy.
Peltier
Jacques
J
University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 75390, USA.
Ryan
Matthew W
MW
D000328:Adult; D000465:Algorithms; D000485:Allergens / Q000276:immunology*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D006969:Hypersensitivity, Immediate / Q000175:diagnosis*; D015994:Incidence; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011237:Predictive Value of Tests; D011446:Prospective Studies; D015927:Skin Test End-Point Titration; D012882:Skin Tests / Q000295:instrumentation*
D000485:Allergens