Allergy Testing

Allergies occur when the immune system reacts to an otherwise harmless, normal foreign substance, called an allergen, that it has been sensitized to. When the allergen comes into contact with the body, the immune system reacts to inflame the area.

Allergy symptoms depend on the substance involved and their severity can range from mild to extreme.An allergy skin test is important to determine what substances the body is allergic to. Along with your medical history, it can confirm whether a particular substance is causing an allergic reaction. This information helps your provider at Skin and Laser Dermatology Center develop an allergy treatment plan for your specific needs.

Patients who have symptoms they believe may be linked to an allergic reaction or do not have enough relief from symptoms with over-the-counter treatments should call today to schedule an appointment for allergy testing at (703) 893-1114.

What can I expect at my appointment for allergy testing?

Your provider will review your symptoms and other relevant aspects of your medical history. Based on your medical history and a physical examination if needed, they will determine the specific type of allergy testing required.

What happens during the allergy skin test?

During the allergy test the skin is exposed to suspected allergy-causing substances (allergens) and is then observed for signs of an allergic reaction.

What kind of allergy skin testing is there?

There are two methods for skin testing, prick skin testing and intradermal skin testing:

1. Prick skin testing is when individual solutions containing the suspected allergen are placed on the skin using a prick device.
2. Intradermal allergy testing is when a small amount of the suspected allergen is injected just under the surface of the skin using a small needle.

Both tests usually have their results read 15 minutes after the suspected allergen is placed on or under the skin.

Are there any allergy testing side effects?

The most common side effect is itching and mild swelling where the test is done. These symptoms often clear up within a few hours of the test and can last up to 24-48 hours. Mild steroid creams and antihistamines may help alleviate these symptoms. On rare occasions, allergy tests produce an immediate, severe reaction that requires medical attention. Your medical provider is trained to respond to these rare causes with the proper treatment and equipment, including epinephrine to treat a potentially life-threatening acute allergic reaction also known as anaphylaxis.

Can children be tested for allergies?

Yes. Both children and adults can be tested for allergies.

How long does it take to get skin test results?

Results are quite fast because positive reactions usually appear within twenty minutes of the test. Delayed reactions can occur, usually disappear in 24-48 hours, and should be reported to the office.

Is allergy testing painful?

Both the intradermal injection and prick skin testing have little to no pain. Positive reactions can result in itchy red bumps that can be alleviated with topical steroid treatments or by taking antihistamines afterwards.

How should I prepare for my allergy skin testing?

Avoid all antihistamines and sleep aids that contain antihistamines for five days prior to the appointment. These include Allegra (Fexofenadine), Claritin/Alavert (Loratadine), Zyrtec (Cetirizine), Doxepin (Sinequan), Benadryl (Diphenhydramine), Atarax (Hydroxyzine), Clarinex (Desloratadine), Atarax (Hydroxyzine), Clarinex (Desloratadine), Xyzal (Levocetirizine).

When does blood testing for allergies occur?

An allergy blood is when a blood sample is sent to a laboratory for testing. This procedure might be performed if:

1. A medication cannot be stopped that can interfere with skin testing
2. The patient has a severe skin condition such as eczema or psoriasis
3. Testing with a strong allergen might cause a severe allergic reaction

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