Allergy Testing

Allergy, Asthma & Immunology Associates, LTD

Allergy, Asthma, & Immunology Specialists located in Scottsdale, AZ & Gilbert, AZ

Allergy testing is the only way to identify your specific allergens, which is essential for developing the best treatment plan. The experienced team at Allergy, Asthma & Immunology Associates, LTD, with two locations in Scottsdale, and another in Gilbert, Arizona, places a high priority on allergy testing as the first step toward helping you find long-lasting relief from your allergy symptoms. If you have questions about allergy testing or need to schedule an appointment, call the nearest office or book online today.

Allergy Testing Q & A

What type of allergy testing might I have?

When you go in for allergy testing, the team at Allergy, Asthma & Immunology Associates, LTD, uses one of two possible types of skin tests, a skin prick test and intradermal testing.

Both tests are safe and produce quick, accurate results while you wait in the office; then, you can talk with your doctor and decide the best allergy treatment for you.

Skin prick test

Your provider at Allergy, Asthma & Immunology Associates, LTD, places a small drop of an allergen extract on your skin, then pricks the skin under the allergen to make a tiny puncture.

This prick-puncture technique allows the allergen to get under your skin. If you’re allergic to the allergen, a small, itchy bump appears in 15-20 minutes.

The team at Allergy, Asthma & Immunology Associates, LTD, uses skin prick testing to identify food, animal, pet dander, environmental, and medication allergies.

Intradermal testing

Intradermal testing is like a skin prick test, except the allergen is injected under the surface of your skin. Your provider at Allergy, Asthma & Immunology Associates, LTD, may do intradermal testing if your skin prick test was negative, and they want to verify the results.

Does allergy testing include a blood test?

Blood tests accurately identify your allergens, but your provider uses this type of allergy testing primarily for patients with a skin condition that prevents a skin test. They may also use blood tests to follow your food allergy or sensitivity over time.

When do I need a patch test?

Patch testing identifies common contact allergens such as poison ivy, detergents, nickel, and other metals. Your patch may contain a variety of the most common contact local allergens.

The team at Allergy, Asthma & Immunology Associates, LTD, can also customize your patch test and use specific products you bring from home that may cause your allergic reaction.

After placing the allergens in isolated squares on a large, self-adhesive patch, your provider places the patch on your back. Since it takes time for this type of allergen to cause a reaction, you wear the patch for 48 hours.

At the end of 48 hours, you go back to Allergy, Asthma & Immunology Associates, LTD, and your provider checks the skin under the patch. If you don’t have any skin reactions, you may need to wear the patch for several more days.

If you’re ready to take control of your allergies, allergy testing is the first step. Call Allergy, Asthma & Immunology Associates, LTD, or book an appointment online today.

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