A proposed relevance scoring system for positive allergic patch test reactions: practical implications and limitations

Abstract

A relevance scoring system for positive allergic patch test reactions is proposed. It refers to current relevance (CR) as well as past relevance (PR). The system was evaluated in adult patients between January 1 and June 30, 1996, and limited to 4 allergens: nickel sulfate, neomycin sulfate, epoxy resin and colophony. Certain methods available for increasing the accuracy of relevance were used in the present study. Practical implications and limitations of using a relevance scoring system are discussed.