In vivo diagnostic procedures: skin testing, nasal provocation, and bronchial provocation

In vivo challenge procedures can be very useful in the analysis of allergic symptoms. Skin testing has a high degree of sensitivity and specificity for determining antigens that cause allergic disease. However, positive skin tests do not necessarily indicate that a specific allergen causes symptoms specific for a certain organ. Nasal and whole lung provocation testing can help define relevant allergens that cause rhinitis or asthma symptoms. These tests are safe when performed properly under close medical supervision and have predictive values that make them useful diagnostic tools.