Allergy Test in Delhi | Comprehensive Allergy Profile

Allergy Test

An allergy test is a diagnostic tool which is used to identify the substances which cause allergic reactions in your body. These tests help to determine if your immune system overreacts to things like pollen, food, dust mites, animal dander, insect stings, or certain medicines. The test detects lgE antibodies or your skin’s reaction to specific allergens, helping your doctor to manage and treat your symptoms like sneezing, rashes, difficulty in breathing, or itching more effectively.

Why an Allergy Test is Done?

If you’re experiencing frequent sneezing, nasal congestion or runny nose.
Having skin rashes or itching (eczema, hives).
If you’re wheezing, coughing, or having asthmatic symptoms.
Reactions after eating some specific food.
Breathing difficulty or swelling after an insect stings.

Types of Allergy Test

Skin Prick Test (SPT): It detects immediate allergic response by pricking allergens on the skin.
Intradermal Test: In this a small amount of allergen is injected in the body (used for drug/insect allergy)
Blood Test: It helps to measure specific lgE antibodies in the blood to identify allergens.
Patch Test: It identifies delayed allergic reactions.
Elimination Diet: It identifies food allergies by removing and reintroducing suspected items.

How is the Allergy Test Performed?

Before the Test:

You should avoid antihistamines, anti-allergic medications, and steroids for a few days before the test. (as advised by your doctor).
Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, or have any issues like skin conditions, asthma, or any past severe allergies.

During the Test:

Skin Prick Test (SPT): Drops of allergens are placed on your forearm or back. The skin is pricked with a tiny needle at each spot. If you’re allergic, a raised, red bump (wheal) appears in 15–20 minutes.
Blood Test: A blood sample is collected to measure allergen-specific IgE levels.
Patch Test: Patches with allergens are applied to your back for 48 hours. It is used for delayed reactions like eczema from cosmetics, metals, or chemicals.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is an allergy test painful?

The Skin prick tests may cause mild discomfort, like a mosquito bite. The blood tests involve a simple needle prick. Patch tests are painless but may cause temporary itching.

2. How long does the test take?

Skin prick test: 30 minutes (results in 15–20 mins)

Blood test: 5–10 minutes to draw blood; results in 2–3 days

Patch test: Applied for 48 hours, final reading at 72–96 hours

3. Are allergy tests safe for children?

Yes, Allergy tests are safe and are commonly done in children, especially those with asthma, eczema, or food allergies.

4. How reliable are allergy tests?

They are very reliable when combined with your medical history and symptoms. False positives can also occur, so clinical correlation is important.

Allergy test