Abstract

Delayed cutaneous hypersensitivity was assessed in 752 hospitalized patients. Six antigens were injected intradermally and evaluated 48 hr later; stability of the reactions was tested again after one month. Reactivity rates to the antigens were: mumps, 68%; candida, 63%; trichophyton, 62%; tuberculin, 33%; histoplasmin, 26%; and coccidioidin, 13%. Half of all patients reacted concurrently to two of the first three antigens, 89% to at least one of the first three. Response to three of the four most reactive antigens must be evaluated to assess generalized cutaneous anergy. Histoplasmin and coccidioidin added < 1% to the total, and high degrees of concurrence suggested cross-reactivity between them. Erythema and induration were highly correlated for mumps, candida, and trichophyton, necessitating use of only induration for evaluation. Retesting of a small group of patients resulted in increased reactions with all antigens except tuberculin. Evaluation of possible tuberculosis is improved by simultaneous skin testing with several antigens.

This content is only available as a PDF.
You do not currently have access to this article.