ABSTRACT
IgE-mediated inhalant, food, venom, and some antibiotic-induced allergic diseases can be confirmed with sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy utilizing epicutaneous and intracutaneous skin test techniques. Prick or puncture skin testing is all that is required for standardized allergen extracts and potent pollen extracts. Allergen- and histamine-positive control skin tests sites need to be properly distanced to avoid false-positive reactions. False-negative epicutaneous tests may occur, especially in evaluating oral allergy syndrome, if fresh food extracts are not utilized. Skin reactivity to both allergens and positive controls is diminished but not absent in infancy and the elderly. Delayed hypersensitivity skin testing (patch testing) with standardized and validated concentrations of contactants is the preferred evaluation for allergic contact dermatitis; the larger the battery, the more reactants are discovered.
