Allergy Prick Test
Scratching your head about allergies? Uncover allergy triggers with a prick test
Prick Testing
Is itchy eyes, running nose, or rashes causing you a lot of discomfort? You might have allergies!
Prick testing is a fast and efficient approach to determining the allergens that trigger the allergic reactions.
At Emirates Dermatology and Cosmetology Center in Abu Dhabi, our team of experienced dermatologists can carry out prick tests to assist you in discovering the allergens that trigger the allergy.
Conditions Diagnosed with Prick Testing
Prick tests are commonly used in diagnosing
- Airborne allergens: Fur and feathers from animals, dust and molds, pollens and mites.
- Food allergies: Some of the foods that are considered as allergens include peanuts, milk, eggs, shellfish and many others.
Prick Testing Procedure
- Consultation: First, we will ask you about your medical history and the nature of your symptoms to know which allergens to include in the test.
- Skin cleaning: We will first use alcohol to wipe a small part of your forearm or back.
- Allergen application: A small prick of each allergen extract is then introduced to your skin.
- Pricking: With the sterile lancet we will lightly scratch your skin and then we will place the allergen on the scratched area.
- Waiting: We will wait for about 15-20 minutes to see if you have any reactions or not.
- Evaluation: This will be done using a skin colorimeter to quantify the redness, size, and itching at the test sites.
Benefits of Prick Testing
- Fast and accurate: Prick tests are usually very fast and one can get the result in a matter of minutes.
- Minimal discomfort: The test is non invasive and the patient experiences little to no pain.
- Safe for most people: Prick tests are safe for adults and children as young as six months old.
What to Expect During the Test
- Medications: You may have to avoid using products such as antihistamines, which can affect your skin before the test is carried out.
- Avoid lotions: Avoid using lotions or creams on the test area prior to your visit to the doctor.
- Wear loose clothing: Make sure that you are dressed comfortably and that your arms or back – whichever is being worked on – are easily accessible.
Prick Test in Abu Dhabi
If you suspect that you have airborne allergens or in the case of food allergy, a prick test is quite effective when it comes to diagnosing.
At Emirates Dermatology and Cosmetology Center in Abu Dhabi, our expert dermatologists can perform a prick test to identify the root cause of your symptoms.
Visit EDCC Skin Clinic in Abu Dhabi for a consultation and learn how prick testing can help you breathe easier and enhance your quality of life!
Treatment Time
15-20min
Downtime
minimal to no downtime
Frequently Asked questions
FAQ
Prick tests are minimally invasive and cause little to no discomfort. You might feel a slight prick when the skin is pricked, but it’s generally well-tolerated.
Prick tests are very safe. In rare cases, you might experience a mild allergic reaction at the test site, which usually subsides quickly. In very rare cases, a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) may occur. However, healthcare professionals are trained to manage such situations.
Prick tests are typically performed by allergists, dermatologists, or pediatricians. Prick testing is available at Emirates Dermatology & Cosmetology Center in Abu Dhabi
Ready to start your journey to clearer skin?