In Vitro Testing for Allergy
Report II of the Allergy Panel
- Council on Scientific Affairs
Abstract
This report is the third of a series of reports prepared by a multidisciplinary panel appointed by the Council on Scientific Affairs of the American Medical Association. This report reviews the current status of in vitro tests available in the evaluation of immunologic and/or allergic diseases. A discussion of the large number of tests available to measure IgE is followed by an overview of the status of complement assays and tests being developed for evaluation of immune complexes. Cellular assays involving polymorphonuclear cells (basophils, eosinophils) and lymphocytes have increased in use; their appropriate indication and current worth are evaluated, as well as the therapeutic monitoring of theophylline serum concentrations. In the view of the panel, the rapidly proliferating number of in vitro diagnostic tests has great potential for the enhancement of the practice of allergy, but also a potential for misuse. Appropriate use of these tests is the focus of this report.
(JAMA 1987;258:1639-1643)
Footnotes
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This report was submitted to the AMA House of Delegates in December 1986 as an informational report.
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This report is not intended to be construed or to serve as a standard of medical care. Standards of medical care are determined on the basis of all of the facts and circumstances involved in an individual case and are subject to change as scientific knowledge and technology advance and patterns of practice evolve. This report reflects the views of the scientific literature as of December 1986.
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Reprint requests to Council on Scientific Affairs, American Medical Association, 535 N Dearborn St, Chicago, IL 60610 (William R. Hendee, PhD).
