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Skin Prick Test in Educating Population of Rural Part of Eastern India and Promoting Health in Allergic Rhinitis: An
Manuprita Sharma1, Tanya Khaitan2, Vishal3
1Department of ENT, ICARE Institute of Medical Sciences and Research, Haldia, West Bengal 721645 India.
Summary
Skin prick testing (SPT) effectively identifies common aero-allergens and mites causing allergies in rural Eastern India. Gynandropsis gynandra and Dermatophagoides farinae were the most frequent sensitizers, aiding in allergic rhinitis diagnosis.
Area of Science:
- Allergy and Immunology
- Environmental Health
Background:
- Skin prick testing (SPT) is a primary diagnostic tool for Type 1 hypersensitivity reactions.
- It is crucial for diagnosing conditions like allergic rhinitis, asthma, and eczema.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence and patterns of aero-allergen and mite sensitivity in rural Eastern India.
- To evaluate the effectiveness of SPT in this specific demographic.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of 50 subjects (25 male, 25 female) from rural Eastern India underwent SPT.
- Patients were tested with 35 different allergens, and positive reactions were measured by wheal diameter.
- Clinical histories were recorded following ARIA guidelines.
Main Results:
- The most common allergens identified were Gynandropsis gynandra (33 cases, 4.18 mm wheal) and Dermatophagoides farinae (25 cases, 6.12 mm wheal).
- Other significant allergens included Ageratum conyzoides, Cannabis sativa, and Cassia occidentalis.
- Statistically significant differences in sensitivity were noted between Ageratum conyzoides, Cannabis sativa, and Dermatophagoides farinae (p<0.0001).
Conclusions:
- SPT is a reliable and minimally invasive method for diagnosing allergies in patients with allergic rhinitis.
- The study highlights specific aero-allergens and mites prevalent in rural Eastern India, informing targeted allergy management.

