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Is the menstrual cycle affecting the skin prick test reactivity?
Cengiz Kirmaz1, Hasan Yuksel, Nihal Mete
1Department of Internal Medicine, Celal Bayar University, Manisa, Turkey.
Asian Pacific Journal of Allergy and Immunology
|March 24, 2005
Summary
Skin prick tests (SPT) for allergies show increased reactivity at mid-cycle due to hormonal changes. Optimal allergy testing timing in women may depend on the menstrual cycle phase for accurate results.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Endocrinology
- Allergology
Background:
- Allergen skin prick tests (SPT) are crucial for diagnosing allergic sensitization.
- Hormonal fluctuations during the menstrual cycle can influence immune responses.
- Previous research has not fully explored the impact of the menstrual cycle on SPT results.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the influence of menstrual cycle phases on SPT reactivity.
- To determine if hormone levels correlate with SPT results in women with allergic rhinoconjunctivitis.
Main Methods:
- Forty-two female patients with seasonal allergic rhinoconjunctivitis participated.
- SPT reactivity to allergens and histamine was measured at three cycle phases: early, mid, and late.
- Serum levels of estradiol, progesterone, LH, and FSH were measured concurrently.
Main Results:
- SPT reactivity to allergens was highest at mid-cycle.
- SPT reactivity to histamine remained consistent across cycle phases.
- Estradiol and LH levels positively correlated with mid-cycle SPT allergen reactivity.
Conclusions:
- Performing SPT at mid-cycle may yield the most significant allergen reactivity.
- Elevated estradiol and LH levels appear to enhance allergen-induced mast cell degranulation.
- Menstrual cycle phase should be considered for optimizing SPT in female patients.