ELECTRODERMAL TESTING
Electrodermal testing was developed in Germany over the past 50 years by a number of
physicians and scientists, as a means to supplement the limitations of physical and biochemical
testing. By applying scientific biophysical technology to Oriental Acupuncture theory, some
sophisticated electrodiagnostic testing instruments can now be used to determine a wide range
of disorders, allergies, food/chemical sensitivities, medication tolerance and efficacy, nutritional
deficiencies. It is often able to identify various “functional” disorders which occur in the preclinical
(psychosomatic) phases of disease-which precede the more advanced morphological
(measurable tissue change) phases. Obviously, the earlier the diagnosis and intervention in the
disease process; the easier the treatment and the more successful the outcome.
Electrodermal testing technique involves the use of a precise electronic instrument applied to
specific points to measure changes in skin resistance in response to various test substances or
medications placed in circuit with the patient. The process is rapid and painless (no needles nor
electric shocks). This is not an objective testing method (like an electrocardiogram), but an
operator-dependent technology (like a stethoscope). A proven accuracy of 80-90% is possible
-but only with a highly experienced medical practitioner.
Electrodermal testing can therefore be used to supplement other (physical and biochemical)
methods in diagnosis and treatment by providing additional information for a physician- which
must be co-ordinated with other clinical information and tests.
REFERENCES- available to physicians at, or through, the Library of the College of Physicians
and Surgeons of B.C.
1. Krop, J., Lewith, G. T., et al, A Double Blind, Randomized, Controlled Investigation of
Electrodermal Testing in the Diagnosis of Allergies; J.Alt.&Compl.Med, Vo1.3. Number 3,
1997 pp.241-246
2. Krop, J. et al, Comparison of Ecological Testing with Vegatest Method in Identifying
Sensitivities to Chemicals, Foods, and Inhalents. Am. J. Acupuncture, Vol. 13, No. 3, July-
Sept. 1985, pp.254-259
3. Fehrenbach, J., H.Noll,.H.G. Nolte, H.W. Schimmel, 1981. Short Manual of the Vegatest
Method; Editor: J.N. Kenyon. B.E.R./Vega Grieshaber GmbH & CO.
4. Kenyon, J.N., 1985. Modem techniques of Acupuncture: