Food Allergy Allergy occurs when a person reacts to substances present in food or environment that are harmless to most...
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Skin prick testing is the primary method for the diagnosis of IgE mediated food and environmental allergies. This Is done in our clinic by experienced staff.
The test is usually performed on the forearm as shown in the picture but is also performed on legs or occasionally on the back. The result of the test is available within 15 minutes. The skin prick tests will be interpreted by your specialist in conjunction with patient’s history and physical examination.
It is important that the patient avoids antihistamines for 3 days and any other medications which have antihistamine effect (please refer to table below for a list of medications) right prior to the appointment. If not sure, call our clinic.
Medications which are antihistamines or have antihistamine activity and which may interfere with skin testing Download PDF
We have commercially available food allergen extracts, but there are times when we need to do skin prick tests to fresh food/s. If bringing fresh foods fruits/vegetables/meats/seafood) – please bring each food in a separate sealed bag.
Bloods tests for allergies are performed if the skin pricks are inconclusive (very uncommon) to determine food allergies, the patient has severe eczema or the patient is unable to stop antihistamines. This will be discussed during the consultation.
Skin prick test being performed
Skin prick test results
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