Skin prick test--more reliable than estimation of specific IgE in allergy diagnosis

The aim of this study is to determine the reliability of specific IgE levels in the diagnosis of allergic disorders when compared with the skin prick test. The modified skin prick test has been used in "allergy" diagnosis for several decades in clinics around the world. In recent years however, its position as the numero uno investigation has been challenged by estimation of specific IgE levels to individual allergens. In this study the sensitivity/reliability of "specific IgE" test using the "immunoblot" strip method was compared with the skin prick test. One hundred patients suffering from various allergic disorders underwent skin prick tests and specific IgE for 3 different mites. The results of this study show that the skin prick test is more sensitive/reliable as compared to estimation of specific IgE levels.