DNCB and PPD skin testing in breast cancer

DNCB and PPD skin testing was performed in 152 breast cancer patients. Bates' instruction with a plea for uniformity was used (Cancer, 43, 1979, 2306). Majority of patients were tested while being diagnosed and prior to the treatment. There were no differences in the reactivity within early operable breast cancer patients (Stage I and II) with respect to nodal involvement. Patients with N1 reacted in the same manner as those with N0. The reactivity of patients with locoregionally advanced disease (Stage III) was similar to that of Stage I and II patients. Significantly lower responsiveness was found in Stage IV patients, the depressed response to DNCB being more pronounced than to PPD.