RAST AND SKIN-TEST SCREENING IN THE INVESTIGATION OF ASTHMA

  • 1 January 1982
    • journal article
    • research article
    • Vol. 49  (6) , 311-314
Abstract
Adult asthmatics (72) were studied prospectively for detecting atopy by the use of screening methods employing total serum IgE, RAST [radioallergosorbent test] and prick tests. Of the patients, 51 were considered atopic on the basis of prick test reactivity or a positive RAST. Although the total IgE values of the atopic and nonatopic individuals demonstrated some overlap, values over 150 U/ml were found only in atopics. Of the atopic individuals, 89% could be detected by a combination of total IgE > 150 U/ml and the use of 5 specific IgE determinations from the frequency of positive RAST to 20 environmental antigens. Of the atopics, 90% were detected by 4 prick tests. Regional data are required to develop an effective set of screening tests. The use of such tests can reduce costs and technical time in the investigation of atopy.

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