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Allergy testing - Results

Alternative Names

Patch tests - allergy; Scratch tests - allergy; Skin tests - allergy; RAST test

Normal Values:

In a nonallergic person, allergy tests should be negative (no response to the allergen).

What abnormal results mean:

Most often, a positive test means you are allergic to the substance in question. The skin tests are most reliable when testing for airborne substances (such as animal dander or pollen). However, if the dose of allergen is excessive, a positive reaction will occur even in persons who are not allergic.

RAST test

Allergy skin prick or scratch test

Intradermal allergy test reactions

Skin testing, PPD (R arm) and Candida (L)

Reviewed last on: 1/9/2009
Stuart I. Henochowicz, MD, FACP, Associate Clinical Professor of Medicine, Division of Allergy, Immunology, and Rheumatology, Georgetown University Medical School. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

References

Wallace DV, Dykewicz MS, Bernstein DI, Blessing-Moore J, Cox L, Khan DA, et al. The diagnosis and management of rhinitis: an updated practice parameter. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2008 Aug:122(2).

Kurowski K, Boxer RW. Food allergies: detection and management. American Family Physician. 2008 June:77(12).

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