How is aspirin sensitivity diagnosed in patients?

Aspirin sensitivity, particularly in the context of asthma and related conditions, is most accurately diagnosed using an aspirin challenge test. This test involves administering specific doses of aspirin to a patient under controlled conditions to observe for any adverse reactions or exacerbation of symptoms, such as asthma attacks. The challenge test helps to confirm sensitivity, as it allows medical professionals to monitor the patient’s response directly in a safe environment where immediate care can be provided if necessary.

Other methods like blood tests, skin allergy tests, or breathing tests do not specifically assess for aspirin sensitivity. Blood tests typically measure overall immune response or allergy-related markers but do not directly indicate an individual’s reaction to aspirin. Skin allergy tests evaluate responses to various allergens but are generally ineffective for non-immunological reactions, such as those associated with aspirin sensitivity. Breathing tests assess lung function and might show a decrease in airflow during an asthma exacerbation, but they do not identify the specific trigger, which is where the aspirin challenge test plays a crucial role by explicitly linking the reaction to aspirin intake.