The significance of bronchial and nasal provocation tests in making the diagnosis of allergy in children.

The relationship between positive skin tests and positive provocation tests at the affected organ level was studied in children with rhinitis and bronchial asthma. Of 357 positive skin reactions against pollens only 49% were positive in rhinometry, while of non pollen allergens only 31% of 59 challenges were positive. Of 778 challenges with pollens 40% gave a positive bronchial response, while only 27% of 848 challenges with non pollens were positive. More detailed information is given on single allergens and the consequences for hyposensitation therapy are discussed.