Open AccessMolecular‐based allergy diagnostics in the real world: evidence for a cost explosion and an impact vacuum
Author(s) -
Conlon Niall,
Devlin Lisa,
Steele Cathal,
Shendi Hiba,
Doré Matthew,
Thompson John,
Donnelly Alison,
Edgar J. David M.
Publication year - 2015
Publication title -
clinical and translational allergy
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.979
H-Index - 37
ISSN - 2045-7022
DOI - 10.1186/2045-7022-5-s3-o3
Subject(s) - medicine , molecular diagnostics , diagnostic test , pediatrics , allergy , emergency medicine , medical emergency , immunology , bioinformatics , biology
Results MA testing has increased annually since its introduction in 2010. Spending on MA diagnostics exceeded £20,000 in 2013. Increases in test numbers were observed across a range of allergen groups during the time period and suggests routine ordering (Figure 1). Analysis of request sources indicated a surge in test numbers across 5 key user hospital units (Figure 2). Additionally, a marked increase in MA diagnostics orders from non-specialist sources was noted. Use of MA diagnostics introduced a mean increase in cost of 156% in adults (range 11%-900%) and 197% in children (range 9%-600%)(Table 1). Review of individual cases indicated that MA diagnostics had no specific impact on diagnosis or management in 78.6% of adults and 83.0% of children.