Prausnitz-Küstner test (PK test) /prous″nits kist″nər/ [Otto C. Prausnitz, German hygienist, 1876–1963; Heinz Küstner, German gynecologist, 1897–1963] , a skin test formerly used to measure the presence of immunoglobulin E. An allergic response was transferred to a nonallergic person who acted as a surrogate to permit identification of the allergen. It is no longer used because of the high risk of transfer of hepatitis or blood-borne diseases such as acquired immunodeficiency syndrome. Also, serum IgE can now be measured by in vitro assays, such as the radioallergosorbent test and radioimmunosorbent test. Also called passive transfer test. Compare patch test, radioallergosorbent test. See also anaphylaxis.
