Allergy testing

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Allergy skin prick or scratch test

Intradermal allergy test reactions

RAST test

Skin testing, PPD (R arm) and Candida (L)

Patch tests - allergy; Scratch tests - allergy; Skin tests - allergy; RAST test

In a nonallergic person, allergy tests should be negative (no response to the allergen).

Most often, a positive test indicates an allergy to the substance in question. The skin tests are most reliable when testing for airborne substances (such as animal dander or pollen). However, if the dose of allergen is excessive, a positive reaction will occur even in persons who are not allergic.

Additional conditions under which the test may be performed:

• Allergic rhinitis
• Allergy to mold, dander, dust
• Angioedema
• Contact dermatitis
• Nasal obstruction

Review Date: 08/03/2005
Reviewed By: Frederic F. Little, M.D., Department of Allergy and Pulmonary/Critical Care Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.