Pathergy test

Pathergy test

The pathergy test is a test used for the diagnosis of Behçet's disease [http://www.niams.nih.gov/Health_Info/Behcets_Disease/default.asp#beh_i "National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases: Behcet's Disease."] The arm is pricked with a small needle. The test is positive when a small red bump or pustule develops subsequently on the place of insertion. The test has a low sensitivity. Examining the patch of skin tested under the microscope reveals increased numbers of monocytes and neutrophils, both of which are types of white blood cells. Also, skin thickening is found. This is because of the overactivity of neutrophils, which attack the walls (endothelium) of the small blood vessels.

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  • Behçet's disease — Not to be confused with Becker disease. Behçet s disease Classification and external resources ICD 10 M35.2 ICD 9 136 …   Wikipedia

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