What is the most common purpose for intradermal injections?

Intradermal injections involve the administration of a substance into the dermis, which is the layer of skin situated between the epidermis and the subcutaneous tissue. The most common purpose for intradermal injections is sensitivity testing to drugs or antigens. This method is especially utilized in allergy testing and diagnosing tuberculosis through the Mantoux test.

Intradermal injections allow for the evaluation of immune responses in a localized area since the injected substances can prompt an immediate reaction that can be observed and measured effectively. The small volume used and the method of administration facilitate a highly localized response, making it ideal for this type of testing.

Other methods of administration, such as subcutaneous or intramuscular injections, are better suited for vaccinations or fluid administration, where a broader systemic effect is desired. Pain relief is typically managed with different routes of administration that allow for faster or more effective symptomatic relief rather than localized testing. Therefore, the focus on sensitivity testing provides clarity on the primary clinical use of intradermal injections.