[In vitro testing for allergic contact dermatitis].

Abstract

Patch testing is the standard method to identify allergic contact dermatitis. Simple, safe and accurate in vitro methods identifying contact allergies would offer both theoretical and practical advantages. Using the lymphocyte transformation test (LTT), allergen-specific lymphocytes central to the pathogenesis of Type IV allergies can be identified. Various studies have assessed the value of LTT in the diagnosis of contact allergies. The current assessment is that the test can be helpful in distinguishing between irritant and allergic reactions. LTT is especially useful in demonstrating drug allergies and can also be employed to prove sensitization to gases or toxic substances. At the present time, it is not an alternative for patch testing in daily practice.

• Authors: R Brehler, H Merk
• Journal: Der Hautarzt; Zeitschrift fur Dermatologie, Venerologie, und verwandte Gebiete (Hautarzt) Vol. 56 Issue 12 Pg. 1141-3 (Dec 2005) ISSN: 0017-8470 [Print] Germany
• Vernacular Title: In-vitro-Tests zum Nachweis von Kontaktallergien.
• PMID: 16283125 (Publication Type: Comparative Study, English Abstract, Journal Article)

Chemical References

• Allergens
• Epitopes

Topics

• Allergens (immunology)
• Cross-Sectional Studies
• Dermatitis, Allergic Contact (diagnosis, epidemiology, immunology)
• Drug Eruptions (diagnosis, epidemiology, immunology)
• Epitopes (immunology)
• Germany
• Humans
• In Vitro Techniques
• Lymphocyte Culture Test, Mixed (methods)
• Patch Tests (methods)
• Predictive Value of Tests
• T-Lymphocytes (immunology)