Skin testing techniques

Skin testing is a simple, safe method for determination of immediate hypersensitivity. It is reliable in skilled hands, and results are reproducible when standardized extracts are employed. Epicutaneous methods have greater specificity than intradermal testing and have acceptable sensitivity in most clinical situations when potent extracts are employed. Although puncture testing has greater reproducibility than the modified prick method (see article by Dreborg), the latter is the method of choice in dermatographic patients.