Allergy - Fig Test

Allergies are basically hypersensitivity caused by exposure to a particular antigen or allergen resulting in a marked increase in reactivity to that antigen on subsequent exposure, sometimes resulting in harmful immunologic consequences. This overreaction by the immune system seldom results in symptoms such as sneezing, itching, rashes or even difficulty in breathing and swallowing too. One can even develop hypersensitivity to drugs and certain biological materials. Severe allergic reactions such as anaphylaxis and angioedema of the glottis can cause systemic shock and even death in some cases. This commonly requires immediate therapy with subcutaneous epinephrine or IV steroids.

Allergy tests do not have any specific parameters for preparation apart from the standard blood and skin test preparatory measures which the doctor has to take care of. The doctor will ask for information about lifestyle, family history, etc. to get a hold on probable antigens that might have caused your allergy. They might ask you to stop taking medications if you’re taking any, because they can affect the test results. There are three types of tests for allergies: Skin test, Blood test, Elimination diet, The doctor will suggest any preparatory measures according to the allergic reaction(s) and test needed.

These tests help in confirming the allergens causing the symptoms avoidance of which will help the patient recover faster. The doctor or allergist might even suggest medication for the same to accelerate the healing or in cases where avoidance of allergen is difficult. In case of negative results also, the doctor at least can rule out allergies or potential allergens for the contributing symptom. Ruling out allergies is as necessary as confirming the same since they limit unnecessary avoidance and paranoia.

The procedure varies according to the test to be undertaken. Skin tests- scratch, intradermal and patch are the types of procedures undertaken to do a skin test. Close monitoring will be done to identify how your skin reacts to any foreign substance. The patch test involves patch(es) on your body put on for 48 to 96 hours before they are tested. Blood tests- blood sample is tested in laboratories with a test called ImmunoCAP. Elimination diet- If the doctor suspects a food item as the reason for allergic reaction(s), this test is adopted.