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Date: | Mon, 22 Jun 1998 13:25:44 -0400 |
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>On Fri, 12 Jun 1998 19:21:51 -0600 Kelly Duncan <[log in to unmask]>
>writes:
>> Is scratch testing that bad? Is it worth it?
>
>It depends on the person doing the testing. Our daughter had some prick
>tests done at about 13 months. They used a grid of plastic things that
>held the allergens and scratched the skin.
That's called a "multi-tester".
> It was done in two blocks and
>she barely fussed. Quick and done. However, she reacted to NOTHING!
>Except the control for histamine. This even though we know by
>eliminations and challenges that she is allergic to dairy, chocolate, and
>corn (at least). She also seems to be developing nasal allergies which
>did not show up (yet).
>
>What our allergist told us was that it was a good thing that she did not
>show positives to the foods because that means she probably will not have
>any type of serious reactions.
Not entirely true. It is still possible to have severe, lifethreatening
reactions, even if the child tests negative. It happened to our son.
> It also gives her the best odds on
>"outgrowing" the allergies. As for the inhaled, they usually don't show
>up as early as 1 year, but anything is possible. They usually develop
>between the ages of 1 and 3.
>
>Personally, I think allergy tests are subjective. I get a delayed and
>very mild reaction to molds, but know they cause me great problems.
>Allergy testing is only one part of the puzzle and may give some clues.
>My personal opinion is to not rely too heavily on them. If you can
>identify things other ways, that's probably more accurate. Just my
>opinion and experience.
>
Let's call them an added piece of data in the complex search for answers.
And, as with most situations, some of the data is "spurious" - over time
and with experience, you find out what is valid.
Mark
Mark Feblowitz GTE Laboratories Incorporated
[log in to unmask] 40 Sylvan Road, Waltham, MA 02154-1120
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