Rhinitis laboratory findings
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Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]
Overview
Laboratory Findings
For assessing the possibility of allergies, skin testing, when possible, is the preferred method in comparison with various in vitro tests because it is more sensitive and specific, simpler to use, and less expensive [1] [2]
The typical method of diagnosis and monitoring of allergic rhinitis is skin testing, also known as "scratch testing" and "prick testing" due to the series of pricks and/or scratches made into the patient's skin. Small amounts of suspected allergens and/or their extracts (pollen, grass, mite proteins, peanut extract, etc.) are introduced to sites on the skin marked with pen or dye. The allergens are either injected intradermally or into small scratches made into the patient's skin, often with a small plastic device. Common areas for testing include the inside forearm and the back.
Testing can be either single antigen or multiple antigen testing. Both test the skin for effects of different substances.
References
- ↑ http://www.mayoclinicproceedings.com/inside.asp?AID=3978&UID=
- ↑ Ten, R (1995). "Allergy Skin Testing". Mayo Clin Proc. 5 (70): 783–4. pmid 7630219.