ALLERGY DIAGNOSTIC TESTING

Allergy testing can help determine the cause and severity of suspected allergies. An allergist will first review your medical history, perform a physical exam and possible lung function test, and complete one or more diagnostic tests. Tests are used to see if a small, localized reaction will take place in a response to a tiny amount of the potential allergen. These include a skin prick test (the allergen is placed on the skin and pricked with a needle); intradermal skin test (the allergen is injected under the skin); patch test (the allergen is placed on the skin and covered with a patch); blood test (used when skin testing is not possible); and challenge test (the allergen is inhaled or swallowed). 

P.S. Blood tests are not as accurate as other types of diagnostic allergy testing and cannot determine the severity of a suspected allergy.

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