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In vitro and skin testing for allergy: comparable clinical utility and costs.
A W Poon1, C S Goodman, R J Rubin
1Lewin Group, Fairfax, VA 22031, USA. goodman@lewin.com
The American Journal of Managed Care
|June 6, 1998
Summary
Skin and in vitro allergy testing show high correlation for inhalant allergies. Both diagnostic methods are acceptable, with in vitro testing potentially offering a more standardized approach due to technological advancements.
Area of Science:
- Allergy Diagnostics
- Immunology
- Respiratory Medicine
Background:
- Debate exists regarding the optimal diagnostic methods for inhalant allergies.
- Previous studies favored skin testing for accuracy and cost-effectiveness.
Purpose of the Study:
- To re-evaluate the comparative accuracy and cost-effectiveness of skin testing versus in vitro allergy testing in light of recent advancements.
- To assess the correlation between skin testing and in vitro testing for inhalant allergies.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of recent scientific literature comparing skin testing and in vitro allergy testing.
- Analysis of correlation, accuracy, cost, and standardization of both diagnostic modalities.
Main Results:
- Skin testing and in vitro testing demonstrate a high degree of correlation for inhalant allergy diagnosis.
- Determining superior accuracy is challenging due to the absence of a definitive gold standard.
- In vitro testing may provide a more standardized diagnostic approach due to advancements in technology and quality control.
Conclusions:
- Both skin testing and in vitro testing are validated frontline diagnostic tools for inhalant allergies.
- Standardization and quality control are crucial for the accuracy of either testing method.
- Per-patient costs appear comparable, despite differences in per-test expenses.