Bern [Switzerland]: A novel test that massively simplifies the diagnosis of skin allergies and can reliably predict the success of therapy has been recently developed by scientists at the University of Bern. The findings of the research were published in the journal, 'Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology'. Allergies are widespread and their diagnosis is complex. Depending on the type of allergy, the prospects of success with therapy are not always clear. Skin tests so far have been unpleasant, time-consuming and associated with a certain risk of triggering an allergic overreaction.
Around one-third of the world's population suffers from one or more allergies, with the trend increasing every year. By far the most widespread form of allergy is known as immediate-type allergy. This includes, for example, allergic rhinitis (hay fever), allergic asthma, food allergies or allergies against insect venoms, pollen, grasses or house dust mites. It is an overreaction of the immune system to actually harmless foreign components (allergens), which typically occurs within seconds or minutes of contact with the allergen. Allergic symptoms can range from redness and swelling of the skin, itching or shortness of breath to anaphylactic shock and death.
