Correlation between MAST, the skin prick test, and the nasal provocation test in patients with allergic rhinitis

Jang, Tae Young; Choi, Yoon Seok; Kim, Kyung Tae

Abstract

OBJECTIVE
Allergic rhinitis is one of the most common diseases in the field of otorhinolaryngology. Correct diagnosis for allergic rhinitis is important for its optimal management. Many studies have been reported for the diagnosis with allergens. This study was performed to identify the relationship between MAST, the skin test, and the nasal provocation test. We attempted to find an appropriate diagnostic method for finding causative allergens. METHOD: We reviewed the medical records of patients with allergic rhinitis symptoms and physical findings from August 2001 through July 2002 at Inha University Hospital. We selected 197 patients who were examined with MAST, the skin prick test, and the nasal provocation test. The relationship between these tests was determined with SPSS (Ver10.0). RESULTS: There was a significant correlation between MAST and the skin prick test(P<.05). There were also significant correlations between MAST and the nasal provocation test, and between the skin prick test and the nasal provocation test(P<.05). CONCLUSION: MAST might be a useful diagnostic method for finding causative allergens, especially in children and patients with skin hypersensitivity and other skin disorders.