Use of beryllium lymphocyte proliferation testing for screening of asymptomatic individuals: an evidence-based assessment.

OBJECTIVE We reviewed published data describing use of beryllium lymphocyte proliferation testing (BeLPT) to determine the appropriateness of BeLPT for screening asymptomatic individuals. METHODS Published studies were identified by computerized literature searches and hand searches of relevant bibliographies and cited references. Critical assessment of evidence focused on five elements essential to judging effectiveness of preventive services: 1) burden of suffering, 2) accuracy and reliability of screening tests, 3) effectiveness of early detection, 4) harms of screening, and 5) benefits outweighing harms. RESULTS Important gaps and deficiencies in the evidence were found. The prevalence of beryllium sensitization and chronic beryllium disease in asymptomatic individuals are unknown. The accuracy and reliability of BeLPT are uncertain. Marked intra- and interlaboratory variability has been reported. The clinical benefits of early intervention have not been confirmed or quantified in asymptomatic individuals. CONCLUSIONS There is currently insufficient scientific evidence to support the use of BeLPT for routine screening of asymptomatic individuals.