This study shows that out of 774 patients tested, the house dust mite (Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus) provoked the maximum response (51.81%) the house dust was second (42.81%), and shrimp was third (23.92%). The moderate allergenic extracts were cat fur (12.79%), dog fur (10.72%), cockroach (8.47%) egg white (7.56%) and orris powder (6.30%). Among the low allergenic extracts were Aspergillus fumigatus (5.38%), Staphyloccus aureaus (3.53%) and chicken feathers (3.18%). The authors are of the opinion that the skin sensitivity test is an important diagnostic tool in allergic rhinitis and since this is a preliminary study any short listing of allergens to be used is not recommended yet. Skin sensitivity tests is a useful tool for differentiating allergic rhinitis from vasomotor rhinitis. Estimation of allergen specific IgE concentration in the serum will not offer any major advantages over the intradermal skin test in determining the clinical significance of house dust mite allergy. 21 The development of local materials for skin testing may enhance the usefulness of these investigations.
The experiences gained through the use of pectoralis major myocutaneous flap in reconstructive head and neck cancer surgery in 15 cases is presented. It is our method choice for a one-stage reconstruction in head and neck The flap has survived in 14 out of 15 cases. It has definite advantages over other flaps used in head and neck reconstruction.