Allergy tests

Overview

Allergy tests are conducted at specialised allergy clinics within the hospital. An allergy test is a diagnostic procedure conducted to identify specific substances or allergens that trigger allergic reactions in an individual. Allergies occur when the immune system reacts strongly to ordinarily harmless substances, such as pollen, dust mites, certain foods, or animal dander. The purpose of allergy testing is to identify these triggers, so that steps can be taken to avoid them or manage symptoms effectively.

There are several methods of allergy testing, each with its own advantages and limitations. Your doctor will decide which test is suitable for you depending on your history:

• Skin Prick Test: This is the most common allergy test. A tiny amount of allergen extract is pricked into the upper layer of the skin, usually on the forearm. If a person is allergic to the substance, a small raised bump (called a wheal) surrounded by a red area will appear within 15‒20 minutes. It is a safe and painless test and is the gold standard for allergy testing all over the world.
• Intradermal Test: It is similar to the skin prick test but involves injecting a small amount of allergen under the skin. It is more sensitive but carries a higher risk of causing an allergic reaction.
• Blood Allergy Test (Specific IgE test): This test measures the amount of allergy-specific antibodies (IgE) in the blood. It is useful when skin testing is not possible or advisable, e.g., in case of patients with severe skin conditions or patients taking medications that interfere with test results.

Before conducting any allergy test, it is important to discuss the symptoms and medical history with the consultant doctor or allergist. They will determine the appropriate test based on the suspected allergens and the patient's health status.

Once the allergens are identified, the next steps involve educating the patient about avoidance and prevention strategies, and possibly prescribing medications (such as antihistamines) to manage allergic reactions. In some cases, allergen immunotherapy (allergy shots) may be recommended to desensitise the immune system over time.