How necessary are specific IgE antibody tests in allergy diagnosis?

In a 12-month study 301 patients referred to hospital consultants with putative allergic symptoms were tested for specific IgE antibodies to a panel of allergens and for total serum IgE levels. Examination of the data in relation to clinical information and the results of skin prick tests showed that the specific IgE antibody test has a limited role in the investigation of such patients.