Prick test: evolution towards automated reading.
The prick test is one of the most common medical methods for diagnosing allergies, and it has been carried out in a similar and laborious manner over many decades. In an attempt to standardize the reading of the test, many researchers have tried to automate the process of measuring the allergic reactions found by developing systems and algorithms based on multiple technologies. This work reviews the techniques for automatic wheal measurement with the aim of pointing out their advantages and disadvantages and the progress in the field. Furthermore, it provides a classification scheme for the different technologies applied. The works discussed herein provide evidence that significant challenges still exist for the development of an automatic wheal measurement system that not only helps allergists in their medical practice but also allows for the standardization of the reading and data exchange. As such, the aim of the work was to serve as guideline for the development of a proper and feasible system.
CEIT and TECNUN, University of Navarra, San Sebastián, Spain.
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Justo
CEIT and TECNUN, University of Navarra, San Sebastián, Spain.
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Díaz
CEIT and TECNUN, University of Navarra, San Sebastián, Spain.
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Gil
Department of Allergology and Clinical Immunology, Clínica Universidad de Navarra, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain.
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Gastaminza
D000485:Allergens / Q000145:classification / Q000276:immunology; D057205:Automation, Laboratory; D006801:Humans; D006967:Hypersensitivity / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000276:immunology; D012882:Skin Tests / Q000379:methods* / Q000592:standards* / Q000639:trends
D000485:Allergens
allergic reaction; automatic measurement; prick test; wheal