Allergy screening using a microcomputer. Issue 6340 (14th August 1982)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Pantin, C F; Merrett, T G
• Is Part Of: BMJ. Volume 285:Issue 6340(1982)
• Page Start: 483
• Page End: 487
• Publication Date: 1982-08-14
• Subjects: Medicine -- Periodicals; Medicine -- Periodicals; Medicine; Periodicals; 610
• DOI: 10.1136/bmj.285.6340.483
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0007-1447

Abstract

Abstract : Data are presented to show that a microcomputer can be programmed to: (1) analyse a standard allergy questionnaire, (2) reliably predict the ranked order probabilities with which IgE antibody tests will produce positive results, (3) store the IgE test results, and (4) print a comprehensive report that summarises and integrates the clinical and laboratory data. Consequently, the practitioner who refers a blood sample and a questionnaire completed by the patient to a centre where both can be analysed will obtain enough practical information to decide whether to treat or refer that patient to a specialist. The microcomputer is therefore potentially of great value in any preliminary allergy investigation.