Skin Prick Test and Intradermal Test in Allergic Disorders: Clinical Relevance

P C Kathuria; Manisha Rai

Abstract

Allergic diseases are one of the commonest ailments affecting individuals of all age groups globally and their prevalence has been increasing exponentially. Allergy skin testing was started in 1860 by Blackley as a diagnostic tool. Since then, it has been the standard clinical method to demonstrate the presence of allergen-specific IgE antibodies in allergic diseases. There is now consistent evidence that if we decrease sensitization to an allergen, we can “switch off” the inflammatory process in early life. The aim of current review is to offer a comprehensive set of recommendations on the use of skin tests (Skin Prick Test—SPT and Intradermal Test—IDT) in allergy practice. The recommendations in this review are compiled following an in-depth review of existing guidelines, publications including the World Allergy Organization position paper 2020, Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy Skin Prick Testing guide for Diagnosis of Allergic Disease, 2020. The review article will cover indication, methodology, and interpretation of skin tests (SPT and IDT) and will give answers to the most frequently asked questions in the clinical practice of allergy.

Abstract

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