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Alatop: a new in vitro screening test for atopy
M Yazicioğlu1, P Sayinbaş, U Oneş
1Department of Pediatrics, Trakya Faculty of Medicine, Edirne, Turkey.
The Journal of International Medical Research
|November 1, 1994
Summary
The Alatop test offers a valuable alternative for diagnosing childhood atopy, complementing skin-prick tests. Combining both provides a more reliable screening for allergic diseases in children.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Allergy and Immunology
- Diagnostic Accuracy Studies
- In Vitro Diagnostics
Background:
- Atopy, a predisposition to allergic diseases, is common in children.
- Accurate diagnosis of atopy is crucial for effective management.
- Existing diagnostic methods include skin-prick tests and serum IgE level determination.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the diagnostic value of a new in vitro multiallergen IgE antibody test (Alatop test) in children.
- To compare the Alatop test's accuracy with skin-prick tests and total serum IgE levels.
- To assess the reliability of these tests in diagnosing atopy in pediatric patients.
Main Methods:
- A comparative study involving 20 children with asthma symptoms and 20 healthy children.
- Screening for specific IgE antibodies to 12 inhalant allergens using the Alatop test.
- Measurement of total serum IgE levels and performance of skin-prick tests.
- Comparison of test results against clinical diagnosis to determine accuracy.
Main Results:
- Skin-prick tests demonstrated the highest accuracy (80.0%), sensitivity, and specificity.
- The Alatop test showed a notable accuracy of 72.5%.
- Total serum IgE determination had the lowest accuracy at 65.0%.
Conclusions:
- The Alatop test is a valuable alternative for screening childhood atopy.
- While skin-prick tests are superior, the Alatop test offers a reliable in vitro option.
- Combining skin-prick tests with the Alatop test enhances diagnostic reliability for pediatric atopy.