[Allergen-specific IgE detection methods].

The clinical setting defines the use of different methodology to detect allergen-specific IgE antibodies. In primary care, near the patient detection methods are useful as alternative to skin tests. The use of quantitative screening methods for atopy (Phadiatop) has been shown to improve the allergy diagnosis by the practicionner Such methods are very useful for their negative predictive value. Moreover, the dissociation between seasonal and perennial allergy is easier. For the use of specialist, quantitative results of allergen-specific IgE can be related to the probability of a clinical reaction to a given allergen. Clinical decision points have been established for common food allergens associated with atopic eczema in children.