A Reappraisal of the Guinea Pig Maximization Test

The human maximization test was described 30 years ago, in 1966, followed 3 years later by the guinea pig maximization test [1,2]. Owing to limited access to human volunteers, it is the guinea pig test which has been far more frequently used. Although alternative animal models are receiving appreciable attention, the guinea pig maximization test is still the gold standard for assessing allergenicity.