Not at all. The lancet only scratches the outermost, dead layer of the skin. Most patients, including young children, describe it as a tiny tickle or pinch, much less painful than a blood draw.
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Diagnostic Test
Skin Prick Test
The gold standard. Tiny drops of suspected allergens are placed on the forearm, with results within 20 minutes.
Duration:20 minutes
Overview
The Skin Prick Test (SPT) is the international gold standard for identifying IgE-mediated allergic sensitization. It is a rapid, safe, and highly accurate in-clinic procedure. By introducing tiny amounts of specific allergens into the skin's surface, we can determine within minutes what is triggering your symptoms, such as sneezing, runny nose, asthma, or hives.
How It Works
- Allergen Selection: Custom panel chosen based on your clinical history (dust mites, pollen, molds, animal dander, or food).
- Application: Drops of standardized allergen extracts are placed on your forearm.
- Pricking: A sterile, microscopic lancet gently pricks the top layer of skin through each drop. It is painless and does not draw blood.
- Observation: We wait 15–20 minutes to see if any spot develops a localized red bump (wheel and flare reaction).
What to Expect
- Results in 20 minutes: You walk out of the clinic knowing exactly what you are allergic to.
- Mild itching: If you are allergic, the test sites will itch temporarily, resembling a mosquito bite.
- Safety first: The test is performed under direct medical supervision with rescue medications on standby.
Who Is It For?
- Patients with suspected allergic rhinitis or allergic asthma.
- Individuals experiencing hives (urticaria) or eczema with suspected triggers.
- Children and adults with suspected food allergies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Antihistamines must be stopped for at least 5 to 7 days prior to the test, as they can block the skin's reaction and lead to false negatives. Please discuss this with our clinic when scheduling.
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Interested in booking a skin prick test? Consult our specialists.
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