We test adults and children starting at the age of 5 based on individual tolerance.  Younger children or those that may not tolerate testing may qualify for allergy blood tests done at a lab or local hospital.

Testing is performed on the skin by applying a plastic applicator coated with a small amount of allergen.  Depending on levels of sensitivity indicated by redness, swelling and possible itching, a second titration study is performed to determine dosing for immunotherapy treatment.  This is completed by injecting a bit of reactive allergen into the skin of the arm or forearm.  Injection is performed with a very small needle and usually causes little to no pain.  Occasionally some itching or burning may result based on your sensitivity to the allergen.  15 to 20 minutes after application, results are interpreted through measurements of swelling and redness.  Areas of itching are treated with topical hydrocortisone.  The entire process may take up to one hour depending on the number of sensitivities.

Certain allergy medicines, reflux medications, and blood pressure medications may interfere with skin test results.  A list of specific medications and when to stop them prior to the test can be found in the link below.  Usually, medications may have to be stopped a few days to a week prior to the test date.  It is necessary to stop these medications before testing so that results are as accurate as possible.  Medications may be resumed immediately after testing.

Allergy blood tests can be quite expensive.  Despite this, blood tests may be offered to people who may not be good candidates for skin testing.  Allergy blood tests may be offered for young children who are unable to tolerate skin testing, for individuals that may have active skin disease or who are unable to stop certain medications that would interfere with skin test results. We also can do lymphocyte reaction assay testing for delayed food allergies which are quite common and can worsen symptoms, especially if the patient has concomitant inhalant allergies.

The most common side effect of allergy skin testing is itching, burning, redness or swelling at the testing site. Very rarely, a more serious reaction may occur such as shortness of breath or changes in blood pressure.  This is why allergy testing is performed in a physician’s office well equipped to identify and treat more significant symptoms that may develop.