• Immunotherapy
• Spirometry
• eNO
• Exercise Tolerance Testing
• Peak Flow Monitoring
• Allergy Skin Testing
• Skin Prick Test
• Intradermal Skin Tests
• Venom Testing
• Patch Testing
• Food Skin Testing
• Food Challenges
• Drug Sensitivity Testing
• Pulse Oximetry
• Patient Education
• Important Information

Venom testing

Venom skin testing is the most sensitive form of venom testing and continues to be the benchmark used by most allergists. A large number of allergy cells or mast cells reside in the skin providing a very accessible area to diagnose venom allergies. An alternative to venom skin testing is the blood test (RAST) which has a lower sensitivity but it is very useful in patients who have had severe stinging insect reactions and may not be able to tolerate skin testing.

The forearm is the area of the skin that is typically tested by the prick method. It is first cleansed with alcohol and a pen is used to label the area in a grid-like pattern that indicates where the testing substance (allergen) is to be applied. The skin is then pricked with a small, sterile, pointed instrument containing a specific substance or allergen to which the patient may be allergic. After a waiting period of about 15 minutes, the test is read. Positive reactions on skin testing are typically a red, itchy area with a raised center that may look like a mosquito bite. Skin testing on the back is compared with negative (saline) and positive (histamine) control tests to help gauge the intensity of the reaction.

If necessary after prick skin tests, the doctor may recommend intradermal skin tests. The upper arm is the area of the skin that is typically tested. It is first cleansed with alcohol and a pen is used to label the skin in a grid-like pattern that indicates where the testing substance (allergen) is to be injected. The skin is then injected superficially with a small syringe containing a specific allergen to which the patient may be allergic. After a waiting period of about 15 minutes, the test is read. Positive reactions on the skin testing are typically a red, itchy area with a raised center that may look like a mosquito bite. Skin testing on the arm is compared with negative (saline) and positive (histamine) controls to help gauge the intensity of the reaction.

The following medications may interfere with allergy testing and should be discontinued prior to the test procedure:

1. Antihistamines. Many over-the-counter antihistamines, cold medications and sleeping aids (Benadryl, Chlor-Trimeton, Tavist, Robitussin, Tylenol PM, etc.) should be stopped at least 3 days prior to the testing. Loratadine, Alavert and Claritin should be discontinued 1 week prior to skin testing. Prescription antihistamines, such as Zyrtec, Allegra, and fexofenadine, should also be stopped 7 days prior to the skin testing. Astelin nasal spray should be stopped 5 days prior to testing, but intranasal steroids may be continued.
2. Beta-blockers. Beta-blockers should not be used when testing is planned. It is extremely important to consult the allergist to design a discontinuation program if skin testing is required as these drugs must not be discontinued abruptly.
3. Some antidepressants such as amitriptyline should be stopped 1 week prior to skin testing, but some of the newer antidepressant-type medications do not interfere. Please contact the office with the names of your medications to find out what to do.
4. Please call the office for any questions on medications.