What is a Skin Prick Test?
A Skin Prick Test is a simple, safe and quick test used to identify substances that may be causing your allergy symptoms.
Small drops of allergen extracts are placed on the skin (usually the forearm), and a tiny sterile prick allows the allergen to enter the surface of the skin.
- Results appear within 15 minutes
- Minimal discomfort
- Performed in a controlled medical setting
When do you need a Skin Prick Test?
You may benefit from this test if you suffer from:
- Bronchial asthma
- Allergic rhinitis (nasal allergy)
- Allergic conjunctivitis (eye allergy)
- Recurrent urticaria (hives)
- Suspected food allergy
What can the test detect?
Environmental allergens (dust mites, pollen, molds, pet dander)
Selected food allergens (if clinically indicated)
Identifying your allergy trigger helps guide:
- Avoidance measures
- Targeted treatment
- Immunotherapy (allergy desensitisation) when appropriate
How to prepare for the test?
To ensure accurate results:
- If medically safe, stop antihistamines 5–7 days before the test (consult your doctor)
- Continue asthma inhalers as prescribed
- Eat normally before the test
- Inform the doctor if you are pregnant or have severe skin disease
The visit usually takes about 20 to 30minutes
Why is this test important?
Early identification of allergic triggers allows better long-term management of symptoms and may reduce future flare-ups.
What is Allergen Immunotherapy?
Allergen Immunotherapy is a treatment that helps your body gradually become less sensitive to the substances that cause your allergy symptoms.
Instead of only treating symptoms, immunotherapy works on the root cause of the allergy.
It involves giving very small, controlled amounts of the allergen over time to train your immune system to tolerate it.
How is it given?
- Allergy injections (SCIT) – given in the clinic
- Sublingual drops/tablets (SLIT) – placed under the tongue
Your doctor will decide the most suitable option based on your test results.
Who can benefit?
Immunotherapy may be recommended for patients with:
- Persistent allergic rhinitis
- Allergic asthma
- Dust mite or pollen allergy
- Selected environmental allergies not controlled with medications
What are the benefits?
- Reduces allergy symptoms
- Decreases need for medications
- Provides long-term improvement
- May prevent worsening of allergic disease
