Objective Measurements Using the Skin Prick Test in Allergic Rhinitis

Abstract

Objective: To objectively measure the change in size of the wheal or erythema resulting from the skin prick test. Design: Prospective randomized trial involving patients with allergic rhinitis recruited from March 8, 2009, through August 21, 2009, in Seoul, South Korea. Setting: Otorhinolaryngology clinic of a university hospital. Patients: Of 69 patients suspected of having allergic rhinitis, 46 with positive skin prick test results were selected. Main Outcome Measures: Skin prick test and Minolta CR-400 Chromameter. Results: Comparing the 2 values, as the size of the wheal or erythema increased, there was also an increase in the L*, a*, and b* values (P = .049 for each). Conclusions: Use of the Minolta CR-400 Chromameter provides an objective measure of the change in the size of the wheal or erythema. This method may be used in the clinical setting to improve the interpretation of skin prick testing results.