Allergy Testing
Allergy testing is a medical procedure used to diagnose allergies and determine their severity. Depending on the type of allergy and the suspected source, various tests may be used to confirm a diagnosis. Common tests used to diagnose allergies include skin tests, blood tests, and provocation tests.
Skin Tests
Skin tests are the most common way to diagnose allergies. Skin tests involve exposing the skin to a small amount of an allergen and then monitoring the reaction. Skin tests may include prick tests, patch tests, and intradermal tests. Prick tests involve pricking the skin and then applying a drop of the allergen to the area. Patch tests involve applying an adhesive patch that contains the allergen to the skin. Intradermal tests involve injecting a small amount of the allergen just beneath the skin.
Blood Tests
Blood tests are another way to diagnose allergies. Blood tests measure the amount of IgE antibodies in the blood that are produced in response to specific allergens. The results of blood tests are usually available within several days.
Provocation Tests
Provocation tests are used to diagnose allergies to foods or chemicals. During a provocation test, the patient is exposed to the suspected allergen and then monitored for an allergic reaction. Provocation tests should only be done under the supervision of a doctor as they can cause serious reactions.
