Testing

In order to ensure the accuracy of testing, please stop antihistamine medications three days prior to your appointment. Click here for a list of antihistamine-containing medications. If you have any questions about a medication you are taking, please call our office.

Skin Test:

Testing is performed by gently pricking the skin with a small device on the forearms (for older children and adults) or back (for younger children). A small disposable plastic device is used to apply a drop of allergen just under the outer layer of the skin. This is not a shot and does not cause bleeding. Skin testing is generally well tolerated by patients of all ages (even infants) with minimal discomfort. The test areas are measured after fifteen minutes. Patients commonly inquire about alternatives to skin testing, including RAST test (a blood test). We do not perform this test in our office, as it is more expensive and not as sensitive as skin testing.

Intradermal Test:

This is similar to skin testing; however, the allergen is injected under the second layer of skin (similar to a tuberculosis test). This test is mainly used to test for specific allergies when skin testing fails to reveal a highly suspected allergy. It is not routinely performed.

Patch Test:

Patch testing involved applying patches that contain small amounts of various substances known to cause contact dermatitis. These patches are typically worn for two days at which time they are removed. A follow up skin exam is usually performed two days following patch removal. Patches are generally applied on a Monday, removed on Wednesday, and follow up skin testing is performed on Friday. This is not routinely performed.

Spirometry:

Spirometry is a good screening test used to gather information regarding lung function in patients when asthma and/or COPD is suspected. If you are scheduled to have this testing done for diagnosing lung disease, please do not use your rescue inhaler, nebulizer medication, Symbicort, or Advair the morning of the test. If the testing is being performed as part of a routine follow-up visit, it is okay to use your medications are previously directed.

Methacholine Challenge:

Methacholine is an inhaled substance through a nebulizer that causes a patient’s airways to constrict, mimicking an asthma attack. This test is not routinely performed, but is an excellent way to rule out asthma if there is still a question about the diagnosis after more routine testing has been completed.