Evaluation of three methods of using Duotip-test device for skin testing
Pasuree Sangsupawanich, D. of Pediatrics, F. of Medicine, PSU.
Saranya Chamnanphol, D. of Pediatrics, F. of Medicine, PSU.
Daungrachanee Koonrungsrisomboon, D. of Pediatrics, F. of Medicine, PSU.
Corresponding e-mail : spasuree@ratree.psu.ac.th
Grant : Faculty of Medicine, PSU.
Published : Asian Pacific J of Allergy and Immunology 2000, 18 :153-6
Key words : Duotip, allergy, skin prick test
The sensitivity and precision of rotation, prick and puncture mehtods of using Duotip-Test for epicutaneous allergy skin testing were evaluated. Forty-one volunteers who had not taken antihistamines within the previous two weeks were recruited. The mean age was 21.6 years (range 18 to 25 years). Histamine hydrochloride 1 mg/ml and 50% glycerol saline were used as positive and negative controls, respectively. Each method of testing was performed in triplicate on the volar surface of
both forearms. Wheal and flare were measured 15 minutes later. Rotation, prick and puncture
methods produced histamine mean wheal diameter ± standard deviation of 6.61 ±0.87 mm, 3.86 ±
1.03 mm, and 3.00 ±0.65 mm, respectively (p<0.01). The coefficient of variation of rotation method
was 13.13%. It was the only method that gave coefficient of variation lower than 20%. We concluded that the rotation method of using Duotip-Test is a highly reliable technique for skin testing.
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