Comparison of Intradermal Dilutional Testing with the Multi-Test II Applicator in Testing for Mold Allergy

Abstract

OBJECTIVES: To compare and correlate wheal size using the Multi-Test II applicator with the endpoint obtained by intradermal dilutional testing (IDT) for common mold allergens. To validate the safety and efficacy of modified quantitative testing (MQT) for determining immunotherapy starting doses. STUDY DESIGN AND SETTING: Prospective study of 86 subjects with Multi-Test II and IDT for 6 common mold antigens. RESULTS: There was 84% concordance between IDT results and the results expected from the MQT method. When IDT and MQT results differed, the MQT algorithm predicted a safer end-point for starting immunotherapy in all but 2 cases. CONCLUSION: The correlation between Multi-Test II and IDT is not strong enough to infer IDT endpoint from Multi-Test II results for molds. MQT is nearly as effective as formal IDT in determining endpoint. SIGNIFICANCE: MQT appears to be a safe method for determining starting doses for immunotherapy with fungal allergens.