DE102014106170A1 - Device, device and method for applying and introducing at least one allergen test solution onto and into the skin of a body part of a person to be tested - Google Patents

Abstract

Disclosed is a device (1) for the automated placement and introduction of at least one allergen test solution on and in the skin of a body part of a person to be tested in a prick test with - at least one holder (5) for releasably receiving at least one Puncture agent for puncturing the skin; - at least one receptacle (6) for a body part of the person to be tested, on and in the skin of which the at least one allergen test solution is to be applied and introduced; - A drive for moving the at least one holder (5) from a first position in which a puncture means received in the holder (5) is spaced from the skin surface of a in the receptacle (6) arranged body part of the person to be tested, in a feed direction which leads to a penetrating contact of the puncture means received in the holder (5) with the skin of the body part of the person to be tested arranged in the receptacle (6); and - a pressure limiter connected to the drive, which causes the drive to terminate a movement of the holder (5) in the feed direction, if by the movement of the holder (5) in the feed direction, a contact between the puncture means and the skin of the in Received receiving (6) arranged body part while a predetermined value exceeding pressure is achieved. With such a device, for the first time, the possibility is given of reliably applying allergen test solutions in an automated step to the skin of a person to be tested in an automated step, reproducibly and, if possible, also with a view to later evaluation.

Description

The invention relates to a device for the automated application and introduction of at least one allergen test solution onto and into the skin of a body part of a person to be tested as part of a prick test. It also relates to a device for applying and introducing at least one allergen test solution onto and into the skin of a body part of a person to be tested by means of a prick test, which device comprises a device as mentioned above and at least one puncture agent. Finally, it relates to a method for applying and introducing at least one allergen test solution onto and into the skin of a body part of a person to be tested which is arranged in a receptacle as part of a prick test.

Allergies are a well-known phenomenon in which the immune system of an affected person exhibits certain harmless substances called allergens, a hypersensitivity reaction. Allergies occur in different forms and with reactions to the most diverse allergens causing the respective allergy. For categorization, a distinction is made here between different types of allergies, the clinical classification having types I to IV. The type I allergy is the one that is in focus here. Characteristic of type I allergy is the instantaneous response of the immune system to the formation of classic symptoms, e.g. swelling of the nasal mucosa with secretion (e.g., hay fever) or itchy rashes.

Appropriate allergic reactions of the so-called type I allergy are induced by certain pollens, such as e.g. Grass pollen, tree pollen or the like, components in the feces of dust mites (triggers the so-called house dust allergy), animal hair (such as cat or horse hair) and the like.

For affected persons who suffer from such allergies, such an allergy not infrequently means a significant impairment of the quality of life, in severe cases of an allergy even a hazard, if e.g. comes to anaphylactic shock. Over the past few years, there has been a widespread increase in the number of people suffering from allergies in the industrialized countries in relation to the total population.

Allergies can basically be treated in different ways or they can be met in different ways:

So, first of all, a person suffering from an allergy can, as far as this is possible, avoid contact with the allergens to which they are allergic. Furthermore, against the symptoms of allergy, these soothing medicaments can be administered, e.g. so-called antihistamines. Finally, it is known, by way of hyposensitization, in which the allergy-causing substances, the allergens, a person suffering from the allergy person over a period of time in a predetermined dosage are administered and the body is used in this way equally to the allergen, a clear Alleviate the allergic symptoms to a complete eradication of the same and thus to achieve relief from the allergy.

A condition for on the one hand a suitably adapted behavior of the affected person, on the other hand - and in particular - the performance of a hyposensitization, is the exact knowledge of those allergens to which the affected person is allergic.

In order to identify these allergens, in particular with regard to the type I allergy, a so-called provocation test, which is typically carried out as a prick test, is familiar. This type of test is usually the most reliable way to identify allergens specific to the individual in Type I allergy. In such a prick test, dissolved samples with typical allergens are brought into contact with the skin of the person to be tested, and the skin in the areas in which the contact exists is slightly perforated, in order to advance the substance into the epidermis and skin in order to allow contact with the immune system (in particular the mast cells in the epidermis, the epidermis, which in an allergic reaction release the typical symptoms such as wheals causing histamine). By this procedure, as is also the case with the device and device according to the invention and in the method according to the invention, the test allergen applied to the skin is introduced intraepidermally into the skin. In addition to the test solutions containing the allergens in question also comparative solutions of a so-called negative control and a positive control are applied, which may usually be an allergen-free sodium chloride solution (negative control) and, for example, a histamine-containing or codeinphosphathaltige solution (positive control). Now, after a lapse of a predetermined time, typically 15 to 20 minutes, the reaction of the skin is observed, and in particular the formation of wheals is evaluated as an indicator of a possible allergic reaction, but also the redness of the skin can be evaluated. In particular, the wheals formed according to their size (in particular by determining a mean Diameter of each wheal) in comparison to corresponding reactions to the negative control ("zero reaction") or the positive control ("reference reaction").

In practice, such a prick test is often performed so that the test person to be given liquid drops with the respective allergen test solutions and the solutions for the positive control and the negative control on a corresponding area of skin in a spaced arrangement, often on the inside of a Forearm, where then in the area of applied liquid drops, the skin is punctured with a so-called lancet (with a typical puncture depth of in the range of one millimeter). This type of implementation of the so-called prick test on the one hand tedious because for each separately applied test liquid, the staff, typically a suitably trained physician assistant, must individually perform the puncture. In addition, errors may occur if it is not taken into account that a fresh and sterile lancet is to be used for unambiguous validity of the test for each perforation stitch to be set in order to prevent corresponding cross transfers of a solution from one application site to another Cross transfer can otherwise be done by carryover by contaminated lancets. Furthermore, here by the manual operation of the medical staff to observe a range of penetration depths of the lancet, which may be given insufficient pressure of insufficient perforation of the uppermost skin layer and thus insufficient contact of the allergen test solution with the immune system, at one Deep perforation can lead to vascular injuries and corresponding bleeding, through which the allergen test solution can be washed out of the perforation, once again no reliable test result can be obtained. Finally, a too deep perforation also carries the risk that the allergen introduced with a test solution comes into contact with the blood circulation and thus leads to systemic side effects, in the worst case to anaphylactic shock. In this case, a different puncturing or penetration depth can be observed both in comparison of several pricks made by one and the same person and in comparisons of tests that are carried out by different persons. In both cases there is an uncertainty factor here.

Furthermore, in this procedure there is the danger that the drops contained in a comparatively large volume of the test solution and applied to the skin of the person to be tested run there and mix the different allergen test solutions, which in turn leads to a cross transfer and thus a falsification of the test result can lead.

After all, such a long procedure is particularly unpleasant, especially for persons who are very sensitive to pain and very sensitive.

In order to obtain a more convenient and more pleasant procedure for the person to be tested and at the same time be able to apply several allergens in a prick process to the skin and into them, correspondingly stamp-like devices have been developed which are spaced apart in one another have particular puncture sections in particular regular arrangement. These, it is currently widely practiced, immersed in accordance with the arrangement of the puncture sections arranged allergen test solutions (including control solutions for the positive and negative control) containing pots and then in one pass on the skin of a body part, eg the inside of a forearm, applied to a person to be tested and pressed there. An example of such a multi-puncture device is shown in FIG US 3,556,080 disclosed.

Although this solution already offers significant advantages in that in a person to be tested, a corresponding allergy test (prick test) for a variety of potential allergens can be performed simultaneously, the person to be tested thus the otherwise successively performed individually punctures at the order of the Test solutions are spared, but there are still potential errors and inaccuracies in this solution, which can falsify the test result. As before, during the puncture, the skin is attached to the surface of the affected body part intended for the test, e.g. Forearm, pierced by applying a pressure manually, here too low pressure insufficient injury to the skin and thus insufficient contact of the respective test solution with the immune system of the body, too strong pressing a violation of blood vessels and thus, for. a rinsing caused by the incoming bleeding of the test liquid and thus also an inadequate contact of the same cause with the immune system of the body and can also cause systemic side effects. In addition, the manual procedure here involves the risk that a person who applies the various allergen test solutions with an appropriate instrument would incorrectly note the positions at which specific allergens were brought into contact with the body of the person to be tested, and thus falsifies the test result and ultimately makes it useless.

To prevent excessive injury to the skin of a test subject in a prick test, special puncture devices have been proposed that have heel puncture and puncture posts. For example, in this regard, the US 5,820,562 which shows a suitably designed puncture means. But here too there is the danger that is explained in connection with the discussion of the prior art described above, namely that too little injury to the skin and thus insufficient contact of the applied test solution with the immune system of the person under test is achieved. In addition, an excessive injury to the puncture site can be obtained even with such puncture at excessively applied pressure. Finally, even with the use of such puncture means permutations and confusions with regard to the puncture sites and the allergens applied there are possible, so that a test result can not be made a correct statement about the actually for the person to be tested an allergic reaction of type I causing allergens.

To remedy this situation and to provide an opportunity to apply allergen test solutions reliable, reproducible and, if possible, also clearly defined with a view to a later evaluation within the scope of performing prick tests is the object of the invention.

This invention is achieved in a first aspect by a device having the features of claim 1. Advantageous developments of such a device are given in the dependent claims 3 to 8 and 13. Another aspect of the invention consists in a device with the features of claim 9 and corresponding advantageous developments, as given in the claims 10 to 12. Finally, another aspect of the invention is given in a method as defined in claim 14.

To solve the problem, the inventors have initially taken a significant step to the effect that the introduction and introduction of the at least one allergen test solution on and into the skin of a body part of a person to be tested in the context of a prick test unlike previously and since Decades customary and customary no longer takes place in a separate manual order and puncture step, but automated with a correspondingly designed device. This device according to the invention comprises at least one holder for releasably receiving at least one puncture means for puncturing the skin. Furthermore, the device contains at least one receptacle for a body part of the person to be tested, on which, however, skin is to be applied and introduced with the at least one allergen test solution. Such a recording serves the predetermined placement of the body part in question. Basically, the most diverse body parts come into consideration, such as the trunk, wherein e.g. this is placed with the spine in an exposed position so that the at least one allergen test solution in the area of the back, e.g. the shoulder, to be able to raise. In particular, in the device according to the invention, however, the receptacle will be designed such that it is adapted to receive a forearm, in particular in such a way that when the forearm is in the receptacle the inside thereof is exposed for the automated placement and introduction of the at least one allergen Test solution on and in the skin of this underside of the forearm.

The device according to the invention further comprises a drive for moving the at least one holder from a first position, in which a puncture means received in the holder is spaced from the skin surface of a body part of the person to be tested located in the holder, in a feed direction, which movement to a penetrating contact of the puncture means received in the holder with the skin of the body part of the person to be tested which is arranged in the receptacle. In other words, in this case, the puncture agent which was used for applying and introducing the at least one allergen test solution with which the puncture agent was wetted is not supplied by a member of the appropriately trained medical staff, as has hitherto always been customary, and with the skin surface of the skin Body part of the person under test for puncturing the skin in a penetrating portion of the puncture, which penetrates when puncturing the skin in the upper skin layer (the epidermis) brought into contact .. Rather, this is now done automatically mediated by the drive, the holder with the moved thereon arranged puncture means.

Finally, in the device according to the invention, a pressure limiter connected to the drive is provided, which causes the drive to terminate a movement of the holder in the feed direction, if by the movement of the holder in the feed direction a penetrating contact between the puncture means and the skin of the in Receive receiving body part arranged while a predetermined value exceeding pressure is achieved.

This pressure limiter, which is essential for the device according to the invention, on the one hand ensures that the drive reaches the holder until it reaches the predetermined value of pressure against the skin of the body part to be punctured for the application of the allergen test solution moved so as to reliably achieve a sufficient puncture. On the other hand, it is prevented by the stop of the further feed movement in the delivery direction when exceeding the predetermined value for the pressure that too strong a puncture and thus too profound injury is caused, leading to injuries of blood vessels and thus not only to be tested by bleeding occurring Inflict unnecessary injury to the person, but in particular by the washing of the allergen test solution associated with the bleeding sufficient contact of the latter with the immune system, in particular the mast cells, which are responsible for the histamine release occurring in the allergic reaction, and / or threatening systemic side effects Conversion of an allergen test solution into the bloodstream can prevent. It is precisely this pressure limiter that allows and ensures a clearly defined and always reproducible implementation of the automated implementation and introduction. Thus, here not only a speedy implementation of the process of applying and introducing the allergen test solution (s) on and into the skin by means of the automated device according to the invention is ensured, but just just a reliable and reproducible same procedure, the corresponding comparable and ensures reliable results of such prepared and performed prick tests.

The pressure limiter to be provided according to the invention can be formed in a very different way. For example, may be formed on the holder, a resiliently mounted portion, which escapes when moving the holder in the feed direction and upon contact of the puncture means with the skin due to the force exerted by the increasing pressure force, which exceeds the spring force at a threshold value of the pressure, and operated by this dodge an electrical switch which stops the drive and supplies a corresponding stop signal to a drive control, which drive control then causes a stop of the drive. But just as well, the Andruckbegrenzer can also one or more Andrucksensoren, e.g. in the form of strain gauges or piezoelectric sensors, to measure and determine a pressure actually applied pressure and forward it to a control for the drive, which causes a break in the movement of the holder in the feed direction when the predetermined value for the pressure is exceeded. Such a solution has the particular advantage that the device according to the invention is stopped with respect to the specification of the threshold value for the contact pressure, the overshoot of which stops the drive for stopping the movement in the feed direction, e.g. can be changed by appropriate reprogramming of the control and thus allows subsequent adjustment and calibration of the device in this function. Also, the predetermined value for the pressure, upon reaching or exceeding the drive stops the movement in the delivery direction, can be adapted to the person to be tested, e.g. with regard to their age (eg graded according to child, adolescent, adult), their physical constitution and / or their sex. Thus, e.g. in a controller of the device, various predetermined values are preset, from which e.g. in a corresponding selection menu based on entries made there to the o.g. "Variables" is adapted and set for the test to be performed.

So that the device can continue to work automatically even after the puncture and can perform the application and introduction of the allergen test solution onto and into the skin, the so-called pricking, a control can advantageously be provided which stops the movement of the holder in the feed direction by the Andruckbegrenzer controls the drive so that not only further movement of the holder is stopped in the feed direction, but thereafter, a movement of the holder is introduced in a direction opposite to the feed direction to the recorded in the holder puncture of the skin to loosen and remove the part of the body of the person to be tested inserted in the receptacle. This control can e.g. be the above-mentioned control. In this case, in particular, and in addition, a function may be provided which causes a delay by a predetermined time in the manner of a timer circuit before the drive after a stop of the movement in the delivery direction due to the responsive Andruckbegrenzers an introduction of the opposite in the direction of feed executed movement for lifting and releasing the puncture means sets a contact time. This can be a particularly intimate effect of the allergen test solution with the epidermis at the puncture site or at the puncture sites are achieved, this in turn in a very reproducible and thus optimally meaningful for comparison experiments way. It is also conceivable that the drive during the pressure movement in the feed direction is first stopped when the pressure exceeds the predetermined value, that then again carried out with a larger pressure, jerky feed movement in the feed direction (in the manner of an impulse force) to to ensure a further optimized penetration of the skin. This sequence can be specified and controlled again via the advantageously possible control of the drive.

If one mentions an allergen test solution in the preceding or in the following, one is not just one To understand solution containing certain allergens, such as grass pollen, birch pollen, allergens from the excrement of house dust mite or the like., But also corresponding comparative solutions for the negative control and positive control, so typically pure saline for the negative control and eg a histamine-containing or codeinphosphathaltige solution for positive control.

If in the foregoing or in the following of a drive for the holder is mentioned, this is preferably a motor drive. This can e.g. to be an electric motor. However, other actuators are also suitable for the drive, e.g. Drives via pneumatic or hydraulic cylinders or the like.

According to an advantageous development of the invention, the holder has an automatic gripper for automatically gripping and releasing a puncture means. This gripper may accordingly be provided with its own drive for moving corresponding gripper parts for gripping or releasing a puncture means. But it can also be realized with a fixed distance over a grip gripping tabs or gripper fingers or similar gripping elements, of which at least one is resiliently formed or stored, wherein the reach is slightly smaller than the width of an attack portion of the puncture means, where the gripper to releasably capturing the same attacks. In such a construction, the gripper holds the puncture means by spring force. Here, in addition, by means of corresponding back and projections on the engagement section or the gripping elements, a hold can be achieved by positive locking, which can be opened with a resilient deflection of at least one of the gripping elements, so as to release the puncture agent again.

The gripper or a differently shaped holding section for detachably connecting the puncturing means to the holder is advantageously designed so as to be pivotable about at least one axis, in particular about at least two axes extending transversely to the feed direction. In this way, when in contact with the skin surface of the body part in the receptacle to which the puncture agent is to be delivered and against and into which it is to be pressed and pressed, the gripper or otherwise designed holding section can perform a compensating movement to compensate for a - individually different - Inclination of the surface of the body part relative to the feed direction, in particular in a deviating from 90 ° to this direction angle.

Advantageously, the device according to the invention can, according to a particular embodiment of the invention, have a drive which makes it possible to move the holder in at least two linearly independent spatial directions. In this way, for example, in a vertical movement, the feed movement can be carried out, wherein the feed direction corresponding along the vertical, for example, down, runs, whereas in a horizontal direction, a lateral method of the holder is possible, e.g. in order to take a puncture means with the gripper provided according to the advantageous embodiment described above, with which a collection and entry of at least one allergen test solution on and into the skin is to be carried out.

Thus, in particular and in accordance with an advantageous development of the invention, at least one tray can be provided in the device according to the invention, on which unused puncture means can be arranged, which are used for a subsequent puncture insert for applying and introducing at least one allergen test solution onto and into the skin operated, driven by the drive approach such a filing and can automatically receive a puncture there. The unused puncture agents may be puncturants that have not yet been wetted with an appropriate allergen test solution. However, the puncture agent may just as well be wetted with the particular allergen test solution, e.g. by delivering a corresponding puncture means already with appropriate wetting and so introduced into the filing. In the device according to the invention, a plurality of such shelves, in particular two, may also be present in order to be able to position more than one unused puncture means in a locally different waiting position.

Furthermore, according to an advantageous development of the invention, the device according to the invention also has a disposal station for used puncture means, ie puncture means with which an automated application and introduction of at least one allergen test solution has already been carried out on and into the skin of a person to be tested. to be available. In this case, the device is set up so that the holder, driven by the drive, can approach the disposal station and automatically deposit a puncture there. Dropping does not necessarily mean that the holder must bring the puncture agent to a contact with the disposal station. He may also drop this, for example, into the disposal station. The disposal station can comprise, for example, a receiving tray for used puncture means or a comparable container, which can in particular be removed from the device in order to empty it.

According to a further advantageous development, the device may further comprise a Including a receiving station for receiving at least one allergen test solution, wherein the holder operated by the drive, the receiving station can start such that a recorded in the holder puncture means is wetted with at least one arranged in the receiving station allergen test solution. In particular, the drive may be controlled such that it is moved out after immersing the puncture in an allergen test solution in the receiving station in an optimal for a droplet formation at the puncture speed from this, in order then to be moved in a conveying speed, the one ensures secure adhesion of the recorded drop of the allergen test solution to the puncture means and prevents it from dripping off, for example due to movements that are too fast or too jerky.

Accordingly, a device according to the invention, which combines various of the features described above as advantageous in itself, be designed so that at least one tray for unused puncture means is provided, the holder driven by the drive anfährt when a process is started, after one person testing the corresponding body part, eg one of her forearms correctly positioned in the receptacle. If the holder has a gripper, the gripper can grasp the puncture agent and drive out of the tray. A corresponding movement can be for example a vertical movement. Following this, the holder can move the puncture means now releasably attached thereto in the direction of the receiving station, e.g. in a substantially horizontally guided motion and driven by the drive and the puncture means, then immerse in the allergen test solution in the receiving station, e.g. by a vertical movement in the downward direction obtained via the drive. If the puncture agent is then adequately wetted with the allergen test solution, the holder can in turn drive it back, in the direction of the receptacle and the body part of the person to be tested, e.g. of the forearm, this is e.g. again by means of a horizontal movement to then perform a movement in the feed direction, for example a downward vertical movement, and the puncture means in contact with the skin surface on the body part of the person under test, e.g. to move on the inside of the stored there forearm, wherein the feed movement is maintained until a value for the pressure exceeds a predetermined value. Alternatively, a value for the pressure can be specified, which must not be exceeded, but only reached. Optionally, at the end of this movement, a short power impulse defined in a previously defined manner can then be effected in the feed direction in order to ensure an even more optimized penetration of the skin. Now - after the stop of the movement and / or after the shock - the pressure for a certain time can be maintained before the holder again moves in the opposite direction to the puncture of the skin of the ingested body part of the person to be tested to solve. Thereafter, the holder may move the puncture means to the disposal station by further movement, e.g. with another horizontal movement, and let go there to drop it into the disposal station or fall into it or otherwise spend in this. In this way, a completely automated process for the squeezing can be carried out, which is carried out standardized and reproducible with a correspondingly reliable result.

The puncture means may in particular be designed in a manner with a plurality of spatially separated puncture heads, as described in US Pat US 3,556,080 is described. There, for example, a puncture with twelve puncture heads is shown, the number is not fixed here. Instead, for example, ten, eight or six such puncture heads may be present or puncture heads in any other suitable number, for example, only such a puncture or three. Also, the arrangement of the puncture heads is not predetermined in the rectangular matrix-like manner, as shown in said document, such an arrangement, however, is recommended as advantageous. With such a device, when using the procedure described above, for example in the receiving station in a suitable arrangement pots or the like. Vessels are arranged with different allergen test solutions, a test with different potential allergens can be performed in a sequence. To ensure at this point that the evaluation is carried out correctly with regard to the allergens used, the receiving station for receiving the allergen test solutions can be designed such that a carrier with a corresponding arrangement and number corresponding to the arrangement and number of puncture heads of the puncture means Shape can be introduced there by appropriate shaping in an asymmetrical manner only in a specific orientation there, so that the arrangement of the individual allergen test solutions is always predetermined and is reflected in this arrangement of the loaded with different allergen test solutions puncture sites on the body part in the recording ,

The device according to the invention can furthermore not only have a receptacle for a body part of a person to be tested, but, for example, two such receptacles, for example, at the same time both lower arms of a person to be tested Person to be able to record. In such a case, the device may also have two holders, which may be provided, for example, with grippers in as already described above, in order to simultaneously prick both forearms or other body parts which are arranged in the receptacles. In this way, an even faster performance of a corresponding test is achieved, the person to be tested is spared a successive, possibly perceived as unpleasant procedure of pricking.

In a further advantageous embodiment of the device according to the invention, it can be provided that in the region of the recording (possibly the recordings) (in each case) an image acquisition means for acquiring a photographic image of the skin surface of a body part arranged in the receptacle (meaning the skin surface in which at least one allergen test solution has been applied, and in that it also has an image evaluation unit connected to the image acquisition means for evaluating the photographic image with regard to skin reactions, in particular with regard to the formation of wheals, in the area or areas of the skin surface, in which or in which allergen test solution (s) has been applied to and into the skin and / or is, has. Such a further development also allows a standardized and automated evaluation of the respective reaction to the applied allergens and thus determination of those substances to which the person to be tested shows an allergic reaction of type-I.

A further aspect of the invention consists in a device for applying and introducing at least one allergen test solution onto and into the skin of a body part of a person to be tested as part of a prick test, this device comprising a device according to the features described above and, if necessary with the possible further developments also described above and also at least one with the at least one holder releasably connectable puncture means. Again, this puncture means may be one having multiple puncture heads, as in the already referenced one US 3,556,080 is shown and described, but without being limited to the exact number of there twelve separate puncture heads, but with flexible design depending on the requirements.

The corresponding puncture means may consist of different material, with a biocompatible plastic being preferred here. Equally, however, the puncture agent may also be formed from metal or another suitable material or in composite construction. With regard to the formation of a puncturing section of the puncture means, in particular a design with a stop can be provided, which prevents too deep penetration of puncture sections of the puncture means into the puncture thorns into the skin. Here, for example, a configuration as in the US 5,820,562 not only with regard to a puncture device intended for the puncture in one place, but also with a plurality of puncture heads, as already described in many cases US 3,556,080 is described.

Another component of the device may be at least one allergen test solution for wetting the puncture agent. An arrangement of open vessels arranged in predetermined orientation with different allergen test solutions can also be selected here, which are set up in particular for the simultaneous wetting of the puncture heads of a puncture device having a plurality of such puncture heads as described above. Again, with regard to a corresponding design example on the US 3,556,080 to get expelled.

Finally, according to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, a device according to the invention also image acquisition means for detecting a photographic image of the skin surface of the body part have, on and in the (the skin surface) at least one allergen test solution has been introduced and introduced, and one with the Imaging means connected image evaluation unit for evaluating the photographic image with respect to skin reactions, in particular a formation of wheals, in the area or areas in which or allergen test solution (s) on and in the skin has been introduced and / or . are. Such an image capturing means can, if a device according to the above-described advantageous development is used, in which this is in the region of the recording for the body part, on and in the skin of the allergen test solution (s) and is or are to be, is arranged, is provided to be formed by this image capture means. However, it is also within the scope of a device according to the invention that the image acquisition takes place separately from this device in a separate apparatus which can also be operated alone and in isolation. Such an apparatus in itself represents an independent development and can be regarded as a separate invention.

The image analysis of the photographically produced images of the skin surface, which recordings are typically digital, is in particular set up in such a way that it recognizes the formation of wheals and can determine their average diameter. Appropriate Image evaluation software that can detect and measure such structures is available on the market for a variety of other purposes, such as in the field of diagnostics for dermatologists (eg for skin cancer early detection) use. A person skilled in the art can therefore derive corresponding evaluation devices for the purpose described here based on these known solutions and develop them without inventive effort.

Finally, another aspect of the solution according to the invention consists in a method for applying and introducing at least one allergen test solution onto and into the skin of a body part of a person to be tested in a prick test, with a detachably connected thereto , puncture means wetted with the allergen test solution for puncturing the skin by means of a drive, which may in particular be a motor drive, from a first position in which the puncture means is spaced from the skin surface of the body part of the person being tested located in the receptacle , as long as in a feed direction, which leads to a penetrating contact of the puncture means received in the holder with the skin of the body arranged in the recording part of the person under test, is moved until a predetermined value of a pressure with which the holder when moving in the delivery direction and Ko nstakt is pressed between the puncture means and the skin of the body part arranged in the receptacle against the skin of the body part arranged in the receptacle is reached, and the movement of the holder in the feed direction then stopped and the holder thereafter by the motor drive against the feed back is moved. In this case, in particular, a residence time can be predetermined and adhered to, during which the holder remains in the position in which it lies after stopping the movement in the feed direction, before it is then moved back against the feed direction.

Another advantage of the device, device and method according to the invention, especially in comparison with the known manual method with the application of droplets of the allergen test solutions and puncturing with the lancets, consists in the lower consumption of the test solutions. Compared to the typical volume of a drop that is applied to the skin in a conventional procedure, only a fraction of the solution is required for the wetting of the puncture agent according to the invention.

Further advantages and features of the invention will become apparent from the following description of an embodiment with reference to the accompanying figures. Showing:

1 in a perspective view of an inventive device for the automated introduction and introduction of at least one allergen test solution on and in the skin of a body part of a person to be tested in the context of a prick test (hereinafter abbreviated automatic prick device called) in a possible embodiment with open cover from the front;

2 a perspective view of the device according to 1 from the back;

3 in magnification a view from the front on essential components of the 1 pictured device according to the invention;

4 a detailed view of the device in an angle obliquely from above;

5 one of the 3 comparable view of a detail of the device with closed cover; and

6 in an enlarged view of the holder of the device with held by this puncture.

In the figures, a possible embodiment of an automatic prick device according to the invention is shown and will be explained below. The figures can also be an apparatus according to the invention for the Aufund and introducing at least one allergen test solution on and in the skin of a body part of a test person in the context of a prick test refer, which includes the device shown and also shown with puncture.

The figurative representations are schematic in nature and not to scale, are merely illustrative and clarification of a possible embodiment of the invention. In particular, the figures are not the only possible embodiment, as well as the following explanation of the embodiment is not limited to only possible designs. Rather, the following explanation of a possible embodiment variant of the further illustration and the better understanding of the invention, which is generally described above in its general scope and claimed in the appended claims.

In the figures, an automatic prick device is generally indicated by the reference numeral 1 Mistake. This first contains a housing 2 , hinged to which pivotally a cover 3 is attached. This cover 3 that in the 1 to 4 is in the open position, in 5 is shown in the closed position, serves to close an interior area 4 the automatic prick device 1 , A - not shown here - sensor monitors the closed position of the cover 3 and prevents operation of the prick device 1 if the cover 3 is not closed properly. In the interior 4 is an integral part of the automatic prick device 1 an automatically movable by means of a non-illustrated drive holder 5 arranged, and there is a recording there 6 for the positionally defined placement of a body part, here a forearm, of a person to be tested in a position in which the underside of the forearm is exposed turned upwards.

In a rear area of the automatic prick device 1 (see. 2 ) is a handle 7 The subject to be tested has her forearm on the recording 6 has positioned, so as to ensure a defined position of the forearm. The handle 7 can be fixed in terms of its position in the prick device fixed or adjustable in horizontal and / or vertical direction and in variable positions in order to adjust the grip position, for example, to different people to be tested can (eg to a child compared to a adult person).

In the recording 6 and / or on the handle 7 one or more sensors can be provided which detect the presence and the correct positioning of a forearm of the person to be tested in the receptacle 6 and / or with a proper grip around the handle 7 notice and this one in the case 2 arranged control of the automatic prick device 1 signal. In this case, the control of the prick device 1 be set up such that a sequence of the same can only be started when the sensor or the sensors in the recording 6 and / or the handle 7 respond accordingly.

In the following description, in particular, the illustration of the 3 Referenced. There are more details of the automatic prick device 1 to recognize and marked with reference numerals. In particular, it can be seen here that the holder 5 a gripper device having two mutually opposite tongues leaving a gap 8th , These tongues 8th are resilient, so they can dodge by increasing their distance relative to each other. In the area of the space or distance between the tongues 8th is a longitudinally along this distance extending stop plate 9 whose meaning will be explained in more detail below.

There is also a back wall 10 of the interior 4 to recognize in which back wall 10 guide slots 11 are arranged, the movement distances of the holder moved over the drive 5 specify or trace. The holder 5 In other words, that's about the one in the case 2 arranged, not shown here drive along these movement paths movable.

Continue in the interior 4 arranged and in particular in 3 good to see is a receiving station 12 for the inclusion of allergen test solutions, in this case in different forms, ie with different allergen test solutions, in separate pots 13 are filled. In the case of the design variant shown here, these are a total of sixteen such pots 13 leading to two groups of eight side by side in the receiving station 12 are arranged. In this case, the potty can be arranged in one or more group (s) summarized in one or more tableau-like support (s), the (or) only in a certain predetermined position and in a defined orientation in the receiving station 12 can be placed. In addition, it can be ensured that, for example, pots filled with a number of such pots and filled with different test solutions in a predefined sequence are placed in a predetermined arrangement.

The two in the 3 left, vertically extending guide slots 11 give it vertically extending start-up movements of the holder 5 in the direction of the two figure eight groups of pots 13 in the reception station 12 in front.

Furthermore, you can see two inside 4 juxtaposed shelves 14 to which the two middle, juxtaposed, vertically extending guide slots 11 lead and in each of which still unused puncture 15 are arranged. Components of the shelves are here removable trays that have an outer shape only in a certain orientation in the prick device 1 can be used. These shells may in particular be those carrier shells in which the puncture agents 15 , have been covered by a film, inserted and sterilized and delivered so. So can the shelves 14 especially easy with unused puncture agents 15 be equipped by unsealing such a shell first by peeling off the film and then according to the intended position suitable in the prick device 1 is used.

About a movement that holds the holder 5 from the in 3 shown position along the horizontal guide slot in the direction of each branching vertical Guide slot leads and then along the matching vertical guide slot in the direction of the associated tray, the holder can 5 with his through the tongues 8th formed gripper each in the respective tray 14 deposited puncture 15 take.

Furthermore in the interior 4 arranged is a disposal station 16 to recognize, can be disposed of in the used puncture means and collected. The disposal station 16 is designed here as a catch tray and can in particular with the shells of the shelves 14 be identical. Also to this disposal station 16 leads a corresponding, located in the figure right guide slot 11 , being in the lower part of the guide slot 11 an ejector 17 is arranged. This ejector 17 has a rounded starting edge, with which when moving down the holder 5 a puncture means arranged thereon 15 at this ejector 17 is passed, this against a spring force in the direction of the rear wall 10 dodge. Has the puncture 15 then passes the foremost edge of the rounded surfaces, the control of the automatic prick device returns 1 the movement around, raises the holder 5 along the vertical course of the corresponding guide slot 11 turn on, taking the puncture 15 at the trailing edge of the ejector 17 gets stuck and out of the gripper, passing through the two springy tongues 8th is formed, is finally dissolved in the disposal station 16 falls.

Furthermore, to recognize in this figure is a control and display panel 18 about which the automatic prick device 1 be operated and controlled according to their respective conditions. Part of this control and display panel 18 is a display 19 which may be, for example, an LCD display. Furthermore, there are two actuation buttons 20 and 21 to recognize, which are labeled with arrows pointing to the left or right. These are used to automatically start a sequence for automatic pricking, ie, the automatic application and introduction of allergen test solutions on and in the skin, a right (right arrow) or left (left arrow) forearm of a person to be tested. Further actuation buttons 22 . 28 allow navigation through the display menu of the control (actuation button 22 ) or a stop input (actuation button 28 ).

The automatic prick device 1 features, as in particular in 4 can be detected, also via an emergency stop switch 23 , If this is pressed, a prick process is stopped immediately, moves the driven by the drive holder 5 in a safe position. If the holder 5 with a puncture 15 is fitted, this is, if necessary, after only a reset of the emergency stop 23 , in the disposal station 16 disposed of, and the holder 5 moves back to a starting position before, when the emergency stop button 23 has been reset, a new workflow can be started.

In 5 is the automatic prick device 1 with closed cover 3 represented the interior 4 covered. There is also a breakthrough here 24 in the cover 3 through which the respective forearm of the person under test is guided through, so that he is on the recording 6 can be placed.

In 6 is finally an enlarged view of the holder 5 shown as he with the tongues 8th at a puncture 15 is present and this holds solvable. The puncture 15 in this embodiment is one with multiple puncture heads 25 , here are eight such puncture heads 25 , provided, stamped puncture means, in this embodiment, eight punctures with eight different allergen test solutions on and in one on the recording 6 the automatic prick device 1 stored forearm can be performed simultaneously. Recognizable in this figure are also at each of the puncture heads 25 several underside puncture spines 26 which provide a circular arrangement for multiple simultaneously introduced puncture punctures into the skin during puncturing or pricking. Finally, a comb-like extension 27 at the puncture device 15 be recognized. Against this comb-like extension 27 is the stop plate 9 and thus ensures a correct horizontal alignment of the puncture means 15 or prevents tilting and dodging, in the worst case a release of the puncture means 15 from the handle of the holder 5 during the pressing in and puncturing of the puncture agent 15 on and in the skin of the underside of the forearm of a patient.

The device shown here according to an exemplary embodiment now works as follows:
First, it is ensured that the device is properly equipped, ie that in the receiving station 12 the pots there 13 are filled with appropriate allergen test solution, wherein in each of the pots different allergen test solutions may be present, but in one or each of the two to eight pots 13 Once the positive control and negative control (eg, a histamine-containing or codeinphosphathaltige solution or a pure saline solution) is present for the comparison. Furthermore, the shelves 14 each with a fresh puncture 15 equipped, ie in the appropriate places of the devices, the dishes with the fresh puncture means 15 used in the correct orientation, and it ensures that the disposal station 16 emptied or the place of Disposal station is equipped with an empty drip tray. Then the cover 13 closed. If the associated sensor detects that the cover 13 is closed correctly, the further procedure can be carried out.

The automatic prick device 1 can now be put into operation, which by appropriate operation of the actuation button 20 to 22 happens. In this case, the presence of the potty can via appropriate sensors 13 , or the one or more tableau-like carrier (s) with a plurality of pots 13 in the reception center 12 as well as the presence of puncture in the shelves 14 or of pots equipped with puncture means and the correct placement of the disposal container in the disposal station 16 , If a negative message occurs at this point, control of the automatic prick device becomes 1 Prevent a run start and if necessary, eg on the display 19 to issue a corresponding warning.

Through the breakthrough 24 Now leads a person to be tested on her right or left forearm and puts it on the recording 6 taking the handle 7 embraces. Here, the correct position is reached, which can be checked if necessary by a corresponding illumination along a correct alignment line or within a given area, which can be done for example by means of a light emitting diode or laser diode, which is above the recording 6 arranged (similar to the positioning aids in X-ray machines), the prick run can be started. For this purpose, an operator actuates the actuation button 20 or the actuation button 21 , depending on whether the left forearm (actuation button 20 ) or the right forearm (operation button 21 ) of the person to be tested on the picture 6 is placed. The actuation of the corresponding actuating button 20 respectively. 21 now starts the actual prick process. The holder 5 moves first from the in 3 parking position shown one of the shelves 14 on, takes there the deposited puncture 15 and capture it with the tongue 8th formed gripper. Then the holder moves 5 back and dive the puncture 15 in one of the two groups of eight in the potty 13 located allergen test solution. The so-wetted puncture leads the holder 5 in the vertical direction and now moves along the horizontally arranged guide slot 11 towards the area of the picture. There in a position above in the picture 6 arrived arrived lower arm, the holder moves vertically with the held in his gripper puncture means in a feed movement along the direction of vertical downward feed direction. Here, the holder moves 5 until a contact between the through the puncture spines 26 formed puncture tips of puncture heads 25 of the puncture agent 15 is reached.

The holder 5 is now so long in the feed vertically downwards in the direction of the forearm moves until one in the holder 5 arranged, not shown here Andruckbegrenzer, a pressure, with which the holder 5 and thus the puncture agent held therewith 15 is moved against the forearm of the person to be tested, receives, responds, since a preset value is reached or exceeded. Now stops the further adjusting movement of the holder 5 , in which case a repeated short pushing movement in the direction of the delivery direction can take place in order to achieve a reliable puncture of the skin, but this does not necessarily have to happen.

It can now be provided that the holder 5 lingers in the approached position for a certain time; This period of time may be referred to as contact time. Either immediately or after expiration of the optional contact time, the holder becomes 5 with the puncture means disposed therein 15 in turn moves upwards from the forearm of the person under test in a vertical direction and moves along the horizontal guide slot 11 to above the disposal station 16 , There goes the holder 5 in the vertical direction along the to this station 16 extending guide slot 11 down to the puncture 15 at the ejector 17 has passed. This can be indicated for example by a corresponding sensor on the ejector of a control of the drive or due to a position or way determination of the driven moving holder 5 , Then the holder moves 5 up again, passing through the ejector 17 the puncture 15 is held back and out of the clamping grip of the tongue 8th formed gripper dissolves in the disposal station 16 , ie in which these forming collecting container, falls into it.

The holder 5 then moves back to the in 3 shown waiting position and is ready to carry out another test. If the person to be tested is now to be pricked on their second forearm with other allergen test solutions, an operator can use the second, previously unactuated, actuation button 20 respectively. 21 press, whereby now the above-mentioned procedure starts from the beginning with the restriction that the holder 5 now the previously unused storage 14 anfährt and there remaining unused puncture 15 grabs, with this the previously not approached potty 13 in the reception station 12 Attracts to the puncture 15 to wet with the allergen test solutions contained therein, and then goes through the already described process.

Not shown and described here in detail, can in the housing area above the recording 6 an image capture, such as a CCD camera or a comparable digital recording chip to be present in order to make a recording of skin reactions at the previously embroidered puncture sites on the forearm of the person to be tested after a predetermined waiting time. In the automatic prick device 1 In this regard, an image evaluation device can be included which evaluates corresponding skin reactions, in particular determines the sizes of wheals formed, and determines any possible allergic reactions and these, for example, on the display 19 or outputs an optional printer to be connected as information.

Also, it is possible to use here instead of just one shot 6 on the automatic prick device 1 provide two such images, in particular right and left, on the device, so that a person to be tested can bring their two forearms simultaneously. Are then two holders 5 provided, they can simultaneously with puncture taken by these 15 prick each assigned forearm.

In an automatic pricking method as described above, in particular ensured by the Andruckbegrenzer on the holder 5 and the appropriate control of the movement of the holder 5 along the direction of delivery and stopping on reaching a predetermined pressure or when exceeding the same, a reliable puncture of the skin of the person to be tested, but without this it comes to injuries due to excessive pressure. In addition, a clear assignment of the corresponding pattern on the forearm of the patient is possible and ensured by the predetermined arrangement of the allergen test solutions in the receiving station, without causing confusion here. Here, in particular, an asymmetrical shape in the receiving station 12 and in appropriate matching tableaus with the pots 13 Make sure that only a matching panel in the right orientation in the receiving station 12 can be adjusted. The correct positioning can also be monitored by a corresponding sensor.

Finally, not shown here, on the holder 5 the gripper with the tongues 8th set in a manner that allow about two mutually perpendicular horizontal axes pivoting or compensating movements, so that even with a due to a non-planar or non-planar skin surface of the inserted forearm corresponding oblique impingement of the puncture means 15 Dodging is possible on this skin surface and a uniform pressure for all puncture heads 25 can be achieved.

In the prick device according to the invention 1 For example, the controller may also include a counter for the prick operations performed. Such a counter can be evaluated, for example, to track the consumption of test solution (s) and a required refilling or replacing the potty 13 display. Also maintenance of maintenance intervals can be tracked and necessary maintenance can be displayed.

From the above description it has become clear which advantages the automatic prick device according to the invention and a use of the same entail.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

1

 automatic prick device

2

 casing

3

 cover

4

 interior

5

 holder

6

 admission

7

 Handle

8th

 tongue

9

 stop plate

10

 rear wall

11

 guide slot

12

 receiving station

13

 potty

14

 filing

15

 Puncture means

16

 disposal station

17

 ejector

18

 Control and display panel

19

 display

20

 operating key

21

 operating key

22

 operating key

23

 Emergency switch

24

 breakthrough

25

 Puncture head

26

 Puncturing spike

27

 comb-like extension

28

 operating key

QUOTES INCLUDE IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list of the documents listed by the applicant has been generated automatically and is included solely for the better information of the reader. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions.

Cited patent literature

• US 3556080 [0012, 0032, 0035, 0036, 0037]
• US 5820562 [0014, 0036]

Claims (14)

Device for the automated application and introduction of at least one allergen test solution onto and into the skin of a body part of a person to be tested as part of a prick test with - at least one holder ( 5 ) for releasably receiving at least one puncture agent ( 15 ) for puncturing the skin; - at least one recording ( 6 ) for a body part of the person to be tested, on and in the skin of which at least one allergen test solution is to be applied and introduced; A drive for moving the at least one holder ( 5 ) from a first position, in which one in the holder ( 5 ) received puncture agent ( 15 ) from the skin surface of one in the receptacle ( 6 ) arranged body part of the person to be tested, in a feed direction, which leads to a penetrating contact in the holder ( 5 ) puncture agent ( 15 ) with the skin of the ingestion ( 6 ) arranged body part of the person to be tested leads; and - a pressure limiter connected to the drive, which causes the drive to move the holder ( 5 ) in the feed direction, when, as a result of the movement of the holder ( 5 ) in the feed direction a contact between the puncture means ( 15 ) and the skin of the ingestion ( 6 ) received body part while a predetermined value exceeding pressure is achieved. Apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that a control is provided, which in terminating the movement of the holder ( 5 ) in the feed direction by the Andruckbegrenzer controls the drive so that not only a further movement of the holder ( 5 ) is stopped in the feed direction, but then also a movement of the holder ( 5 ) is introduced in a direction opposite to the direction of feed to the in the holder ( 5 ) puncture means ( 15 ) from the skin of the ingestion ( 6 ) to release and remove body part of the person to be tested. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the holder ( 5 ) one, in particular automatic, gripper ( 8th ) for, in particular automatic, grasping and releasing a puncture agent ( 15 ). Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by a drive which permits a movement of the holder ( 5 ) in at least two linearly independent spatial directions. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by at least one tray ( 14 ) for unused puncture agents ( 15 ), the holder ( 5 ) operated by the drive the filing ( 14 ) and there automatically a puncture ( 15 ). Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by a disposal station ( 16 ) for used puncture agents ( 15 ), the holder ( 5 ) operated by the drive the disposal station ( 16 ) and there automatically a puncture ( 15 ) can put off. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by a receiving station ( 12 ) for receiving at least one allergen test solution, wherein the holder ( 5 ) operated by the drive the receiving station ( 12 ) can start in such a way that a in the holder ( 5 ) received puncture agent ( 15 ) with at least one in the receiving station ( 12 ) is wetted allergen test solution. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the receptacle ( 6 ) for a body part of a person to be tested a recording ( 6 ) for a forearm. Device for applying and introducing at least one allergen test solution onto and into the skin of a body part of a person to be tested as part of a prick test with a device ( 1 ) according to one of the preceding claims and at least one with the at least one holder ( 5 ) releasably connectable puncture agents ( 15 ). Device according to claim 9, characterized in that the puncture means ( 15 ) at least two spaced puncture sections ( 25 ) for the simultaneous introduction and introduction of, preferably different, allergen test solutions at different points on the skin surface of one in the receptacle ( 6 ) located body part of a person to be tested. Device according to one of claims 9 or 10, characterized in that it further comprises at least one allergen test solution for wetting the puncture agent ( 15 ) having. Device according to one of claims 9 to 11, characterized in that it further comprises an image capturing means for capturing a photographic image of the skin surface of the body part on and into which the at least one allergen test solution has been applied and introduced, and further comprising an image capture means Image acquisition means associated image evaluation unit for evaluating the photographic image with regard to skin reactions, in particular a formation of wheals, in the area or areas in which or allergen Test solution (s) has been and is or have been, has. Device according to one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that in the region of the receptacle ( 6 ) an image acquisition means for acquiring a photographic image of the skin surface of a body part disposed in the photograph, onto and into which the at least one allergen test solution has been applied and introduced, and further comprising an image analysis means connected to the image acquisition means for evaluating the photographic image with regard to skin reactions, in particular formation of wheals, in the region or regions of the skin surface in which allergen test solution (s) have been applied and / or incorporated. A method for applying and introducing at least one allergen test solution onto and into the skin of a body part of a person to be tested in a prick test, wherein a puncture means releasably wetted therewith and wetted with the allergen test solution the skin-equipped holder by means of a motor drive from a first position in which the puncture is spaced from the skin surface of the body part of the person to be tested in the receptacle, so long in a feed direction, which leads to a penetrating contact of the puncture means received in the holder with the skin of the body part of the person under test is moved until a predetermined value of a pressure applied by the holder when moving in the feed direction and upon contact between the puncture means and the skin of the body part arranged in the receptacle the skin of the on In other words, the movement of the holder in the feed direction is then stopped and the holder is then moved back against the feed direction by the motor drive.

Images