XXXII. An Intramucosal Test for Hypersensitivity in Allergic Rhinitis

Marked differences in the structure and physiology of the mucous membranes as compared with the skin would lead one to expect differences in their reaction to irritants. This is borne out by the observations of Duncan' and of Cooper,2 who showed that poison ivy leaf (Rhus toxicodendron) may be chewed with impunity by susceptible persons, but contact of the leaf or saliva with the skin about the month results in a severe reaction. The nasal mucosa is the primary shock tissue in cases of allergic rhinitis. Nasal tests, therefore, should be more specific and give more reliable information than skin tests in such cases.