3.2. Comparison of the methods
The results of the MSD multiplex immunoassay were compared to the two most commonly used tests: the SPT and the ImmunoCAP assay, performed by a clinical laboratory. When an individual scored positive for the allergy it is shown in colour in Figure 1. When redness of the skin is observed in the SPT, it is indicated as positive. For the tests of the clinical lab and the MSD immunoassay, a threshold of 0.10 kU/L was used; a result above this threshold was considered positive. Both individual allergens and mixes of allergens were tested in parallel. The SPT measurements of subject 16 were excluded because this individual reacted to all pricks, including the negative control, which makes the results doubtful. This could be due to aspecific hyperreactivity of the skin. Most results corresponded well between the three tests, although there were some differences, as discussed later.