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Why are allergy tests done?
Allergy testing is done to find out what substances (allergens) may cause an allergic reaction.
Skin test
The skin test can be done to:
- Identify inhaled (airborne) allergens, such as tree, shrub, and weed pollens, molds, dust, feathers, and pet dander.
- Identify likely food allergens (such as eggs, milk, peanuts, nuts, fish, soy, wheat, or shellfish).
- Find out whether a person may have a drug allergy or be allergic to insect venom.
Blood test
A blood test may be done instead of a skin test if a person:
- Has hives or another skin condition, such as eczema, that makes it hard to see the results of skin testing.
- Cannot stop taking a medicine, such as an antihistamine or tricyclic antidepressant, that may prevent or reduce a reaction to a substance even when a person is allergic to the substance.
- Has had a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis).
- Has had positive skin tests to many foods. Blood tests can help find out which foods the person is most likely allergic to.
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