Delayed hypersensitivity skin tests

Last updated: Thursday, 15, April, 2004

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Item Process
Specimen

In vivo tests.

Method

Intradermal injections.

Antigens tested include candida, tetanus toxoid, diphtheria toxoid, proteus, tuberculin, streptokinase and trichophyton.

Reference Interval

Induration 3 mm at 48 hours is a positive reaction.

Application

Investigation of delayed hypersensitivity (cell mediated immunity).

Assessment and follow up of patients with immunodeficiency.

Only very limited availability.

Interpretation

A negative reaction, in spite of previous sensitisation to the antigen(s), indicates anergy. The results are expressed as the sum of the diameters of positive reactions (numerator).
See also Tuberculin sensitivity test (Mantoux test).

Reference

Report of an IUIS Scientific Committee. Clin Exp Immunol 1999; 118(1): 1-28.