Detailed Information:
Skin tests are the most common form of allergy tests. The allergen is exposed to the body through the skin, and then the skin is observed for reactions.
The scratch test, probably the most common method, places a small amount of the suspected allergen on the skin of the arm and then introduces it under the surface by scratching the skin. Results appear within 20 minutes, and several allergens can be tested simultaneously.
Another method of skin testing involves an injection of a suspected allergen under the skin, followed by observance of the site for a reaction.
Skin tests are most useful for determining respiratory allergies, penicillin allergy, and insect bite allergies.
Related Conditions:
Allergies
Hay Fever
Last updated: 01-Jan-00
