title: Objective measurements using the skin prick test in allergic rhinitis.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  To objectively measure the change in size of the wheal or erythema resulting from the skin prick test.
  
  
  METHODS
  Prospective randomized trial involving patients with allergic rhinitis recruited from March 8, 2009, through August 21, 2009, in Seoul, South Korea.
  
  
  METHODS
  Otorhinolaryngology clinic of a university hospital.
  
  
  METHODS
  Of 69 patients suspected of having allergic rhinitis, 46 with positive skin prick test results were selected.
  
  
  METHODS
  Skin prick test and Minolta CR-400 Chromameter.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Comparing the 2 values, as the size of the wheal or erythema increased, there was also an increase in the L*, a*, and b* values (P = .049 for each).
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Use of the Minolta CR-400 Chromameter provides an objective measure of the change in the size of the wheal or erythema. This method may be used in the clinical setting to improve the interpretation of skin prick testing results.
authors.affiliation: Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Chung-Ang University, Yongsan Hospital, Yongsan-gu, Seoul 140-757, South Korea.
authors.forename: Beom-Joon
authors.initials: BJ
authors.lastname: Kim
authors.forename: Seog-Kyun
authors.initials: SK
authors.lastname: Mun
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D002648:Child; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011446:Prospective Studies; D006255:Rhinitis, Allergic, Seasonal / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000276:immunology*; D012882:Skin Tests / Q000379:methods*