Diagnostic and analytical performance of a screening panel for allergy.

Worldwide, allergic diseases are increasing in prevalence and incidence. Early assessment of the immunoglobulin E (IgE) sensitisation status has a major impact on clinical outcome and selection of therapeutic options. Recently, a number of new IgE-detecting test systems have entered the market, including screening tests allowing identification of a wide spectrum of sensitising allergens. We evaluated the analytical and diagnostic performance of the newly developed Allergy Screen test panel for atopy (Mediwiss Analytic, Moers, Germany). The evaluation was performed for four major respiratory and four major nutritional allergens in 142 patients with clinical suspicion of respiratory and/or food allergies. For all allergens, the test showed acceptable concordance to the skin-prick test and the in vitro IgE CAP system (Pharmacia, Freiburg, Germany). The analytical performance was acceptable, with CVs between 2 and 8% in the positive range and good dilution linearity (R=0.9735). Imprecision in the low IgE concentration range dramatically improved by lowering the cut-off value to 0.2 IU/mL IgE. In conclusion, the Allergy Screen panel yields reliable results in the detection of allergic sensitisation to common allergens.