Modulation of atopy patch test and skin prick test by pretreatment with 1% pimecrolimus cream.

Background: In a subgroup of patients with atopic eczema (AE), aeroallergens are relevant eliciting factors. The atopy patch test (APT) was proposed as inflammation model for AE.

Objective: It was the aim of this study to investigate the effect of pretreatment with 1% pimecrolimus cream (Elidel) on the APT and skin prick test (SPT).

Allergen-specific IgE measured by a continuous random-access immunoanalyzer: interassay comparison and agreement with skin testing.

Background: Our aims were to evaluate the performance of a fully automated system for measuring circulating allergen-specific IgE (sIgE) against an established in vitro assay and to assess the system's diagnostic accuracy against objective clinical criteria for identifying sensitization to specific allergens.

Methods: Using both the IMMULITE 2000 Allergy system (IML) and an assay based on the widely used ImmunoCAP technology (CAP), we measured sIgE in serum samples from 169 persons with suspected allergies to airborne or insect venom allergens. Skin testing outcome served as the clinical comparison method.

Atopy patch test--reproducibility and elicitation of itch in different application sites.

We evaluated the reproducibility of atopy patch test reactions and the quality and quantity of itch in 16 patients with atopic eczema and a history of a positive atopy patch test reaction, comparing three different application sites. The allergen was re-applied simultaneously on both forearms and the back. Intensity and quality of pruritus were evaluated using a visual analogue scale and the Eppendorf itch questionnaire, respectively.