Challenge tests and specific IgE in hay fever sufferers.

The relationship between challenge tests, specific IgE and seasonal effects in hay fever sufferers was studied. There were significant relationships between nasal challenge, conjunctival challenge and skin-prick test threshold doses, although the skin and conjunctiva tended to be less sensitive than the nose. A seasonal effect was apparent on nasal challenge, but not conjunctival challenge or skin-prick testing, with lower threshold doses recorded after the pollen season than in midwinter. There was a significant relationship between specific IgE and nasal challenge, but not conjunctival or skin-prick test threshold doses.