Skin prick tests and allergy diagnosis

Allergol Immunopathol (Madr). 2009 May-Jun;37(3):155-64. doi: 10.1016/S0301-0546(09)71728-8. Epub 2009 Jul 23.

Abstract

Skin testing remains an essential diagnostic tool in modern allergy practice. A significant variability has been reported regarding technical procedures, interpretation of results and documentation. This review has the aim of consolidating methodological recommendations through a critical analysis on past and recent data. This will allow a better understanding on skin prick test (SPT) history; technique; (contra-) indications; interpretation of results; diagnostic pitfalls; adverse reactions; and variability factors.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Contraindications
  • Diagnostic Errors
  • Health Planning Guidelines*
  • Humans
  • Hypersensitivity / diagnosis*
  • Hypersensitivity / immunology
  • Passive Cutaneous Anaphylaxis
  • Reproducibility of Results
  • Skin Tests / instrumentation
  • Skin Tests / methods*
  • Skin Tests / statistics & numerical data