Allergy tests are a set of diagnostic tests designed to identify the presence of a specific hypersensitivity (allergy) to a particular substance or compound using allergens applied on or under the skin. Allergens are substances that trigger immune responses (watery eyes, rash, asthma, runny nose, etc.) on sensitive people. Allergens are most commonly found in foods, pollen or dust particles, antibiotics, metals, animal hair, poisons, chemicals and so on. Allergy testing in Evansville IN determines the type and size of reaction (rash) caused by the allergen in contact with the skin.
There are different types of skin test, the most commonly used are:
• Prick: this test involves placing a drop of allergen onto the skin.
• Intradermal test: a small amount of allergen is inoculated into the skin.
• Patch: different allergens in the form of adhesive patches are applied to the skin on the back for 48 hours.
The study is conducted on an outpatient basis at a medical center or hospital and by trained personnel. The patient should bare their skin for the study, usually an arm, forearm or their back. The doctor will inoculate or apply a small amount of one more allergens, and after a minimum of 20 minutes will be assessed to see if reactivity to the allergen has occurred. The study usually lasts 30 minutes.
Allergy testing does not require prior preparation by the patient except proper cleaning of the skin area and for study. Using creams and irritants days prior to the study and especially the day of the study should be avoided. Some drugs may interfere with the study so its use should be avoided the days leading to it. The study is not painful for your child. He or she may feel some discomfort when applying or inoculating the allergen. If a skin response to allergen occurs, your child may experience itching, stinging or burning in the area. The discomfort will disappear in the minutes or hours following. He or she may be given an antihistamine to minimize reaction at the end of the study. Visit Accredited Asthma, Allergy & Food Intolerance Center to learn more.
