Abstract
OBJECTIVES: 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.
STUDY DESIGN: Prospective comparative clinical study.
SUBJECTS AND 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.
CONCLUSION: Wheal size by SPT is predictive of endpoint by IDT. MQT is nearly as effective as formal IDT in determining endpoint.
SIGNIFICANCE: Modified quantitative testing appears to be a safe alternative to IDT for determining starting doses for immunotherapy.
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