Prostate Cancer Screening
Newborn Screening
The Thromboelastogram
Community-acquired MRSA
Diagnostic Utility of Skin Biopsy
Diagnosis of Sepsis
Osteoporosis in Men
Oral Anticoagulant Therapy
Patient with Allergy
Cytology
Role of Vancomycin
Estimated average glucose
Fungitell Option 2
Evolving role of Troponins
Aspirin Resistance
Tumor Markers
Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy
Swine Influenza
Syphillis
Hereditary Haemochromatosis
Haematological Changes in HIV
Influence of HIV
Drug induced liver injury
Alcohol Abuse
HPV testing in woman
Intravenous immunoglobulins
Death certification
Breat Cancer Month
Therapeutic Plasma Exchange
Bedroom Zoonoses

Patient With Allergy

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Dr George du Bruin - MBChB(Pret) MMed (Anath Path) MMED (Clin Path) DTM & H

PATHCHAT NO 9: APPROACH TO THE PATIENT WITH ALLERGY:  AN UPDATE

HISTORY

A detailed history is the cornerstone of any allergy diagnostic work-up. It is obvious for food allergens. With respect to aero­allergens we have to take into consideration the geographic location, and if the patient's symptoms are worse when indoors or outdoors.

LABORATORY TESTING

Testing should be looked upon as a means of confirming the case history and should be made selectively as the range of allergens is so large. 

Total serum IgE

This is a useful diagnostic test for atopic allergy. It is especially useful in patients who are suspected to be sensitive to allergens other then aero-allergens (which are not included in the Phadiotop) e.g. food allergens and occupational allergens. Parasitic infestation cause increased levels in IgE masking any elevations due to allergy.

Phadiotop

This test is of particular value in screening inhalant allergens. Phadiotop will not detect anti-parasite IgE. Phadiotop is certainly the single most useful and reliable diagnostic test for inhalant allergens.

Identification of specific allergens

The same serum sample sent to the laboratory for Total IgE or Phadiotop testing can be used to identify the individual causative allergens. The clinician may indicate to the laboratory if it should automatically do so. 

 

 

 

 

Read the full article here.