[The diagnostic value of a new whole blood histamine release test using paper disc-coupled antigens--results compared with intracutaneous test, RAST, and eye test].

We have developed a novel histamine release test (HR) using whole blood and antigen-coupled RAST paper discs, for the screening of allergens rather in a short time with a small amount of blood. Histamine was determined by a RIA kit. In order to evaluate the diagnostic value, the results of the test were compared with those of RAST, intracutaneous tests, and eye tests in 45 allergic patients. HR correlates better with RAST than intracutaneous test in almost all antigens. The closest positive correlation with the other tests was seen in mite allergen, followed by pollen, foods and mould spores in that order. When the HR was positive for house dust, 100% of the patients were also positive for the eye test, which is reported to closely correlate with bronchial provocation tests. HR seemed to be a useful test not only for the screening but also for the determination of pathogenic allergens.