Allergy Testing

If you suspect that your child had an allergic reaction, it is important to consult with your doctor. Your doctor can then refer you to an allergist who can verify that your child has an allergy.  

 

Preparing for Your Allergist Appointment

Important details to know:

• What happened when the reaction occurred (signs & symptoms)?

• When did the reaction start and how long did it last?

• How did you treat the reaction?

• Do any other family members have allergies?

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Types of Allergy Tests

 

Skin Prick Test: A small drop of an allergen is placed on a person’s skin, and is then pricked with a special needle in order for the body to absorb the allergen. The skin is then examined after about 15-20 minutes for signs of redness or swelling. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Blood Test: When someone has an allergy, their immune system reacts by making antibodies called IgE (immunoglobulin E) that are specific to the allergen in order to protect them against it. For this test a blood sample is taken and sent to the lab to be examined for allergen specific antibodies.

Oral Food Challenge Test: This test is often used when a child seems to have outgrown their allergy. An allergist gives the child more and more food over a specific period of time. If the food is tolerated and no reaction occurs, the allergist determines if the child still has the allergy or not. 

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