GENERAL INFORMATION
During your allergy assessment your doctor will ask several questions about your reaction to determine if there is an underlying allergy to an environmental allergen such as pollen or animals
The skin prick test (SPT) helps to confirm the presence of an allergy
SPT is the most common allergy test performed in an allergy clinic by specially trained allergist
It is a simple, safe and quick test, providing results in 15 minutes
One week before the appointment, you/your child need to avoid antihistamines such as Benadryl, Reactine, Claritin, Aerus and Allegra because these medications will interfere with the test
Many cough medications and decongestants also have antihistamines and should also be stopped one week before the appointment
If antihistamines are not stopped one week before the appointment the SPT may not be done
The test can be performed on all ages including babies
The number of tests will vary depending on the suspected allergy, as few as 3 or up to 20 tests may be performed depending on the suspected allergies
Two control samples are included to make sure that the test has worked
One control will cause an itchy bump in all people
The other control is water and should not cause an itchy bump
SKIN PRICK TEST PROCEDURE
The test is performed on the inside of the forearm but in some cases it may be carried out on another part of the body such as the back
The steps for the SPT include the following:
Cleaning the skin with an alcohol swab
A pen or marker will be used to label the skin and identify the allergens to be tested
Tiny liquid drops will be placed on the skin
The skin is then pricked through the drop using a metal device called a lancet (this is not a needle)
The doctor or nurse will return in 15 minutes to interpret the test
The test may feel a little sharp but is generally not painful and does not cause any bleeding
Any allergies will cause a localized red bump that is itchy and usually appears within 5 to 15 minutes
The bumps will be measured with a ruler by the doctor or nurse
These itchy bumps usually go away within 30 minutes
The test is very safe in most people, but certain people may not be suitable for the SPT such as those with active wheezing. Your doctor will decide if it is safe to do the test