Paediatrics (RCH) - Research Publications
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ItemVariability in Skin Prick Test Results Performed by Multiple Operators Depends on the Device Used(BIOMED CENTRAL LTD, 2012)BACKGROUND: : The variability of skin prick test results when carried out by multiple users has not previously been assessed across different devices or between different sites on the body. Such multiuser variability has important implications for clinical practice. OBJECTIVES: : We assessed the variability of measurements from 4 commonly used single-headed skin test devices when used by multiple operators and examined whether the variability in performance was different on the back compared with the forearm. METHODS: : Eight adult volunteer "operators" were trained in the use of 4 devices: Greer Pick, Quintip, Stallergenes Lancet, and Feather Lancet. Each operator performed a histamine skin prick test with all devices on the backs and forearms of 5 volunteer "receivers." Variability in results was assessed using a multilevel (random effects) regression model. RESULTS: : After controlling for variation between users and receivers, the residual variability or "measurement error" was least for the Stallergenes Lancet, closely followed by the Quintip. The Greer Pick had the greatest variability. There was greater variability in measurements on the arm compared with the back. CONCLUSIONS: : The devices using the "puncture" method (Stallergenes Lancet, Quintip) provide less variability in results than those using a "prick" method when carried out by multiple users (Greer Pick and Feather Lancet). Testing on the back also gives less variable results compared with the arm.
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ItemA phase I study of daily treatment with a ceramide-dominant triple lipid mixture commencing in neonates(BIOMED CENTRAL LTD, 2012-04-04)BACKGROUND: Defects in skin barrier function are associated with an increase risk of eczema and atopic sensitisation. Ceramide-dominant triple lipid mixture may improve and maintain the infant skin barrier function, and if shown to be safe and feasible, may therefore offer an effective approach to reduce the incidence of eczema and subsequent atopic sensitisation. We sort to assess the safety and compliance with daily application of a ceramide-dominant triple lipid formula (EpiCeram™) commencing in the neonatal period for the prevention of eczema. METHODS: Ten infants (0-4 weeks of age) with a family history of allergic disease were recruited into an open-label, phase one trial of daily application of EpiCeram™ for six weeks. The primary outcomes were rate of compliance and adverse events. Data on development of eczema, and physiological properties of the skin (transepidermal water loss, hydration, and surface pH) were also measured. RESULTS: Eighty percent (8/10) of mothers applied the study cream on 80% or more of days during the six week intervention period. Though a number of adverse events unrelated to study product were reported, there were no adverse skin reactions to the study cream. CONCLUSIONS: These preliminary results support the safety and parental compliance with daily applications of a ceramide-dominant formula for the prevention of eczema, providing the necessary ground work for a randomised clinical trial to evaluate EpiCeram™ for the prevention of eczema. TRIAL REGISTRATION: The study was listed at the Australian/New Zealand Clinical Trial Registry (ANZCTR): reg. no. ACTRN12609000727246.
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