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skin test

A method for determining induced sensitivity (allergy) by applying an antigen (allergen) to, or inoculating it into, the skin; induced sensitivity (allergy) to the specific antigen is indicated by an inflammatory reaction of one of two general kinds: 1) immediate, appears in minutes to an hour or so and in general is dependent upon circulating immunoglobulins (antibodies); 2) delayed, appears in 12 to 48 hours and is not dependent upon these soluble substances but upon cellular response and infiltration.

Synonym: cutaneous test, cutireaction test, skin reaction.