Everything You Should Know About Allergy Test

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An allergy test in Delhi or anywhere in the world is a medical procedure used to identify substances that trigger allergic reactions in an individual. There are several types of allergy tests, each with its own advantages and limitations. In this article, you will know everything about allergy tests, including the different types of tests and how they are performed.

Types of Allergy Tests

There are several types of allergy tests, each of which has its own advantages and limitations. The most common types of allergy tests include:

  • Skin prick test (SPT): This is the most common type of allergy test, which involves pricking the skin with a tiny amount of a suspected allergen. The test is usually done on the forearm or back. If a person is allergic to the substance, they will experience an itchy, raised bump (wheal) at the site of the prick.
  • Intradermal test (IDT): This test involves injecting a small amount of a suspected allergen under the skin. This test is more sensitive than SPT and is usually used to test for allergies to insect venom, medication, and certain foods.
  • Patch test: This test is used to diagnose contact dermatitis, which is an allergic skin reaction caused by direct contact with an allergen. A small amount of the suspected allergen is placed on a patch, which is then applied to the skin for 48 hours. If a person is allergic to the substance, they will develop a red, itchy rash at the site of the patch.
  • Blood test: A blood test is used to measure the amount of allergen-specific antibodies (IgE) in the blood. This test is usually done when a skin test cannot be performed due to severe skin conditions or when a person is taking medications that interfere with the test results.

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Procedures of Allergy Tests 

Allergy tests are usually performed by an allergist, a doctor who specialises in diagnosing and treating allergies. The test is usually done in the doctor’s office and takes about 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the type of test.

  • Skin prick test: Before the test, the doctor will clean the area to be tested with alcohol and mark it with a pen. A drop of the suspected allergen is then placed on the skin, and a small prick is made through the drop. The test is usually done on the forearm or back. The doctor will observe the skin for about 15 minutes to see if there is a reaction.
  • Intradermal test: Before the test, the doctor will clean the area to be tested with alcohol and mark it with a pen. A small amount of the suspected allergen is then injected under the skin using a thin needle. The test is usually done on the forearm or back. The doctor will observe the skin for about 15 minutes to see if there is a reaction.
  • Patch test: Before the test, the doctor will clean the area to be tested with alcohol and mark it with a pen. A small amount of the suspected allergen is then placed on a patch, which is then applied to the skin for 48 hours. During this time, the person should avoid getting the patch wet and should not scratch or rub the area. After 48 hours, the patch is removed, and the doctor will observe the skin for another 48 hours to see if there is a reaction.
  • Blood test: Before the test, the doctor will draw a small amount of blood from the person’s arm. The blood sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis. The results are usually available within a few days.

Conclusion 

Allergy tests are important medical procedures used to identify substances that trigger allergic reactions in individuals. There are several types of allergy tests, including skin prick tests, intradermal tests, patch tests, and blood tests. These tests are usually performed by an allergist and can help diagnose allergies to foods, medications, insect venom, and other substances. It is important to follow the instructions given by the doctor before and after the test to ensure accurate results and to minimise any potential risks or discomfort.