Skin Prick Allergy Test Otolaryngology (ENT) - Head and Neck Surgery What is a skin prick allergy test? A skin prick allergy test is a most convenient and least expensive method of allergy testing and the results are available within 20 minutes. It is done to find out what you are allergic to. Why is it important to know which allergens you are allergic to? This will allow you to avoid or reduce the exposure to those allergens. Successful allergen avoidance can decrease or eliminate allergy symptoms. What are the types of allergens? Allergens may enter our bodies through inhaling, eating or contact. You may be allergic to: • House dust mite • Cockroach • Mold • Curvularia Lunata • Bermuda Grass
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Timothy Grass Common Mugwort Cat Hair Dog Epithelia Tobacco Leaf
How is the skin prick test done? Skin prick testing is mostly commonly performed on the forearm. This test is done by placing a drop of solution containing a possible allergen on the skin and making a series of scratches using a sterile lancet to allow the solution to enter the skin. If the skin develops a red, raised itchy area (called a wheal; it usually means that you are allergic to a particular allergen.
What preparation is needed to ensure accurate results? If you are taking the below medications, please stop them 5 days before the skin prick test. • Anti-histamines (Zyrtec, Loratadine, Chlorpheneramine , Benadryl) • Cold, flu and sinus medications • Sleeping aids (any containing diphenhydramine)
Are there any side effects? The test is slightly uncomfortable, but is usually well tolerated. Local itch and swelling normally subsides within 1-2 hours. More prolonged or severe swelling may be treated with an oral anitihistamine, topical cream and an ice pack.
Skin prick test is not recommended if you are taking the following medications: • Certain anti-depressants (Amitriptyline, Nortriptyline) • Certain anti-anxiety medications (Nefazadone, Clonazepam) • Beta blockers (Toprol/ Metoprolol, Inderal/ Peopranolol, Labetalol, Carvedilol)
Yishun Health is a network of medical institutions and health facilities of the National Healthcare Group. Admiralty Medical Centre • (65) 6807 8000 • www.admiraltymedicalcentre.com.sg Khoo Teck Puat Hospital • (65) 6555 8000 • www.ktph.com.sg Yishun Community Hospital • (65) 6807 8800 • www.yishuncommunityhospital.com.sg The information is correct at the time of printing and subject to revision without further notice.
ENT.TS.07.1020