The Vollmer tuberculin patch test: Evaluation of its relative sensitivity

Abstract

Summary<ul><li>1.A historical review of the evaluation of the Vollmer (Lederle) tuberculin patch test is given.</li><li>2.The method of applying the test is discussed briefly.</li><li>3.A study of one hundred tuberculin-sensitive cases is presented, correlating the patch test with the intradermal tuberculin tests with solutions of purified protein derivative.</li><li>4.The patch test is shown to be more sensitive than the intradermal test with first strength solution of purified protein derivative and less sensitive than the intradermal test with second strength solution of purified protein derivative.</li><li>5.In this small series of patients the efficiency of the test with first strength solution of purified protein derivative is rated at 78 per cent, the efficiency of the patch test at 89 per cent, and that of the test with solution of second strength purified protein derivative at 100 per cent.</li><li>6.The results obtained give further basis to the belief that the patch test may be used in preference to the intradermal test with first strength solution of P.P.D.</li><li>7.The patch test, in our experience, is definitely inferior to the intradermal test with second strength solution of P.P.D.</li><li>8.The tuberculin patch test is as sensitive when applied in the interscapular area as it is when applied over the sternum, and there is less chance of the child's removing the patch.</li><li>9.No significant reactions, other than local phenomena, were noted when the patch test was used.</li></ul>