Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 8, 2026

Basophil Activation Test for Allergy Diagnosis
Published on: May 31, 2021
Diagnosis of immediate hypersensitivity reactions to radiocontrast media
M Salas1, F Gomez, T D Fernandez
1Allergy Service, Carlos Haya Hospital, Malaga, Spain.
Background:
No consensus exists on the diagnostic approach for immediate hypersensitivity reactions (IHR) to radiocontrast media (RCM). We analyzed the diagnostic value of a skin test (ST), drug provocation test (DPT) and basophil activation test (BAT) in patients with symptoms compatible with IHR to RCM.
Methods:
Ninety patients with symptoms suggestive of IHR to RCM were evaluated. ST with a panel of RCM was performed, and if negative, DPT was carried out with the culprit RCM. If ST or DPT were positive, tolerance was assessed with an alternative RCM and BAT was carried out with the same panel used for ST.
Results:
Eight (8.9%) cases were confirmed as having IHR, 5 (62.5%) by ST and 3 (37.5%) by DPT. Five from those confirmed as IHR (62.5%) had a positive BAT.
Conclusions:
Hypersensitivity to RCM was confirmed in 9%, by ST or DPT. BAT proved a valuable method for diagnosis.
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