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Cell-mediated immunity assessed by skin testing (Multitest). II: Correlation between responses from arm and back
F Moesgaard1, M Lykkegaard Nielsen, P Nørgaard Larsen
1Dept. of Surgical Gastroenterology C, State University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark.
Allergy
|February 1, 1988
Summary
The Multitest system assesses cell-mediated immunity (CMI) using seven antigens. Scores differed significantly between arm and back application sites, indicating back test results are not comparable to arm test results.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Dermatology
Background:
- Cell-mediated immunity (CMI) is crucial for immune response.
- Assessing CMI often involves delayed-type hypersensitivity (DTH) skin tests.
- Standardized antigen application systems can improve CMI assessment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the Multitest system for simultaneous DTH antigen application.
- To compare CMI responses measured on the forearm versus the back.
- To determine if back-based CMI scores are comparable to forearm-based scores.
Main Methods:
- A Multitest device with seven DTH antigens was used on 60 healthy volunteers and 58 gastrointestinal disease patients.
- The Multitest was applied to both the inner forearm and the back.
- A scoring system evaluated the number and size of positive reactions.
Main Results:
- Median scores for healthy volunteers were 19 mm (arm) and 14 mm (back).
- Median scores for patients were 12 mm (arm) and 8 mm (back).
- Significant differences (P < 0.01) were observed between arm and back scores in both groups.
Conclusions:
- The Multitest system effectively assesses CMI via DTH reactions.
- CMI scores obtained from the back are not directly comparable to those from the forearm.
- Regression analysis indicated only 64% of back score variability is explained, supporting distinct interpretation.