HOW IS ALLERGY TESTING CONDUCTED

Allergy skin testing is a safe and simple procedure that can yield useful information about your allergic sensitivities. For more than a century, doctors have used skin tests to diagnose allergies. During these tests, your skin is exposed to allergy-causing substances (allergens) and then is observed for signs of an allergic reaction. Along with your medical history, skin tests can confirm whether signs and symptoms such as sneezing, wheezing and skin rashes are caused by allergies. They can also identify the specific substances that trigger allergic reactions.

Skin allergy testing is widely used to diagnose allergic conditions such as hay fever, allergic asthma and dermatitis (eczema). It's safe for people of all ages, including infants and older adults. If you want to start immunotherapy — a series of injections intended to increase your tolerance to allergens — you need either a skin or blood test to identify the substances that trigger your allergies. Blood tests are particularly useful for those who should not undergo skin tests. Although blood tests can be as accurate as skin tests, they're not performed as often because they may be less sensitive and are more expensive.

Skin allergy testing is usually performed in a doctor's office.

Typically, a nurse administers the test and a doctor interprets the results. The three main types of skin tests are: Puncture, prick or scratch test. In this test, which is the type of skin test most commonly performed, tiny drops of purified allergen extracts are pricked or scratched into your skin's surface. This test is usually performed to identify allergies to pollen, mold, pet dander, dust mites, foods, insect venom and penicillin. The second type of test is the Intradermal test where purified allergen extracts are injected into the skin of your arm. This test is usually performed if your doctor suspects that you're allergic to insect venom or penicillin. The last type of test is the Patch test where an allergen is applied to a patch, which is then placed on your skin. This test is usually performed to identify substances that cause contact dermatitis. These include latex, medications, fragrances, preservatives, hair dyes, metals and resins.

Contrary to popular belief, skin tests cause little if any discomfort. Because the needles used in these tests barely penetrate your skin's surface, you won't bleed or feel more than mild, momentary pain. Some tests detect immediate allergic reactions, which develop within minutes of exposure to an allergen. Other tests detect delayed allergic reactions, which develop over a period of several days.


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