Description

A Skin Prick Test is a diagnostic procedure done to identify the allergy-causing agents (called allergens) that trigger various kinds of allergic diseases. Also known as a scratch test, we test a variety of important allergens that are found in the local region including pollen of trees, grasses and weeds, spores of moulds, dust mites, insects, and animal dander, as well as common food allergens. Depending on a patient's history, specific individualized allergens can also be arranged.

Skin Prick is a Non-invasive Test and is not painful. This type of testing uses needles (lancets) that barely penetrate the skin's surface. There is no bleeding and only mild to moderate discomfort is felt at the site of the prick.

In this test, a small quantity of allergen is placed on a specific point on the forearm or back. The outer layer of the skin is scratched to let the allergen seep in and symptoms of allergic reaction are observed. If any redness or inflammation appears on the skin, then that person is having allergy.

• A Skin Prick Test usually takes about 20 to 30 minutes.
• A positive skin test is when a visible allergic reaction develops corresponding to a specific allergen. Bigger wheals usually indicate a greater degree of sensitivity. 
• A negative skin test means that you probably aren't allergic to a particular allergen.

Test Preparation

Before any allergy testing, the health care provider will need some information about:

• Details of the past allergic reactions experienced
• Family history of specific allergies
• Past illnesses
• Work and home environment
• Lifestyle and habits
• Food and eating habits