Comparison of intradermal dilutional testing, skin prick testing, and modified quantitative testing for common allergens
Peltier, J.; Ryan, M.W.
Otolaryngology--Head and Neck Surgery Official Journal of American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery 137(2): 246-249
2007
ISSN/ISBN: 0194-5998
PMID: 17666250
DOI: 10.1016/j.otohns.2007.05.002
Accession: 052236552
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. Prospective comparative clinical study. A total of 134 subjects were simultaneously skin tested for immediate hypersensitivity using the Multi-Test II device and IDT. 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. Wheal size by SPT is predictive of endpoint by IDT. MQT is nearly as effective as formal IDT in determining endpoint. Modified quantitative testing appears to be a safe alternative to IDT for determining starting doses for immunotherapy.