The multi-test system: a standardized approach to evaluation of delayed hypersensitivity and cell-mediated immunity

While delayed cutaneous hypersensitivity (DCH) testing with ubiquitous antigens is acknowledged to be useful in assessment of cell mediated immunity, existing methods suffer from lack of standardized antigens and optimal doses. The authors have evaluated a new plastic, disposable device (Multi-Test, Lincoln Laboratories) for simultaneous administration of up to eight test materials by multiple puncture and seven ubiquitous antigens in 70% glycerol prepared by Institut Merieux. Each antigen was standardized chemically and biologically for DCH activity. The Multi-Test system proved to be safe, rapid, painless, and reproducible means of evaluating DCH to multiple standardized antigens. This procedure offers the potential for detecting changes in cell-mediated immunity in diseases individuals who are skin tested periodically.