The ACVD task force on canine atopic dermatitis (XVII): intradermal testing

Intradermal testing has been practiced for decades in human and veterinary medicine. The primary utility of intradermal testing is in the demonstratio n of IgE-mediated allergen hypersensitivity. The presence of a positive rea ction on an intradermal test is not always indicative of allergy, as it may sometimes be an indication of sub-clinical hypersensitivity. Despite its w idespread use by veterinary dermatologists, the usefulness of the intraderm al test would be greatly enhanced by the use of standardized allergen extra cts and homogeneous criteria for the interpretation of results. Irrespectiv e of these shortcomings, intradermal testing is regarded as a valuable tool in the demonstration of allergen-specific hypersensitivity when performed according to accepted guidelines. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.