Pathlab: Skin prick testing no longer available at Pathlab Taupō

Skin prick testing is a specialised test to detect specific IgE antibodies to a range of allergens.

The accuracy of the skin prick test is highly dependent on the expertise and experience of the individual performing it. There are a number of variables that can influence the result given it is an in-vivo test, unlike highly controlled in-vitro testing, and significant inter-operator variability has been documented.

To ensure operator competency, and by extension, accuracy of the test, each operator must regularly perform skin prick testing. Pathlab recently reviewed skin prick test numbers processed at it's Taupō site, and a minimum target of tests per operator per week was advised by their immunopathologist.

Due to the very low volume of skin prick tests processed at Pathlab Taupō, and in commitment to service quality, they have found it necessary to discontinue skin prick testing at this site. Patients will instead be booked for the same testing at a different site, the closest being Rotorua – OPD Department – Rotorua Hospital.

Reference:

• Malling et al. Proficiency testing of skin prick testers as part of a quality assurance system. Clin Transl Allergy. 2016 6:36

View Pathlab skin prick test online request form and patient information sheet.

View Pathlab advice on appropriate use of this test.

Dr. Marianne Empson, Immunolopathologist

Andrew Soepnel, Service Lead Immunology