Skin testing in an allergy affected population of Saudi Arabia.

Two hundred and ten (210) patients attending the Allergy Clinic of King Fahd Hospital, KFU, with a history of allergy related problems were tested for skin sensitivity. A total of 52 allergens were used. Only 55 patients were found to be positive to one or more of the allergens. House dust and inhalants were the most common allergens. Sixty percent (60%) of the patients had elevated IgE levels though all had evidence of allergy-related clinical disease. Clinical history appeared to be the most sensitive indicator of allergic problems. Skin testing and IgE levels were less sensitive.