Evaluation of in vitro tests in the diagnosis of allergic diseases

ABSTRACT

The purpose of this study was to compare a new rapid dipstick ELISA test for measurement of allergen specific IgE [Quidel-Allergen Screen] [Q-AS] with the skin prick test [ST] and with another established ELISA test [Phadezym RAST]. Results of ST, Q-AS and RAST were compared in 53 patients Q-AS showed an overall sensitivity [SE] of 89%, specificity [SP] of 99% and accuracy of 98% as compared to ST, while in relation to RAST, SE was 98%, SP 99% and accuracy 99%. Total serum IgE levels by the new dipstick method [Quidel- Total IgE] and Phadezym-PRlST were also compared and showed an 83% agreement. These results indicate that the new dipstick method is reliable and can be used in screening of allergic patients