Skin Allergy Tests

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Skin allergy tests are done in order to determine what causes allergic symptoms. The procedure provokes a small and controlled allergic response. An allergen may be applied on the skin or injected under the skin. It will then be evaluated to determine the response of the allergen to the skin.

If the allergen produces a skin reaction such as rash, hives or anaphylaxis (worst reaction), it can be concluded that the patient has an allergy to the allergen.

There are types of skin allergy tests. These are:

Scratch Test

Scratch test is also known as puncture or prick test and is the most commonly used method in determining skin allergies. This type of skin allergy test checks for allergies or skin reaction to foods, molds, dust, plants and animal proteins. The doctor or nurse will drop an allergen to the patient’s skin surface and will wait for the skin’s reaction. Scratch skin allergy test does not cause bleeding and is rarely painful.

Intra dermal Test

Intra dermal Test is also called skin end point titration or SET. This method involves injecting a small amount of allergen just under the skin to check or measure allergic response. The amount of allergen injected may be increased. Intra dermal skin allergy test looks for growth of wheat or small swelling of the skin.

Patch Test

This skin allergy test is also done by applying an allergy to a patch. The patch with the allergen will then be applied to the skin surface. When the patient has allergic antibodies in the system, the skin will become irritated and itchy.