Allergy Skin Prick Test: What to Expect and What the Results Mean
Understanding how skin prick testing can help investigate allergies
Could an allergy skin prick test help identify what is triggering your symptoms?
A skin prick test is a quick and commonly used way to look for sensitisation to specific allergens. It can help healthcare professionals investigate possible allergic triggers for conditions such as allergic rhinitis or certain food allergies.
In this video, an allergy specialist explains how skin prick testing works, how the test is performed, what the results can show, and what you can expect during the procedure.
In this video, you’ll learn:
- What an allergy skin prick test is and what it can detect
- Why different allergens and control solutions are used
- How the skin is prepared and the allergens applied
- Why the results are usually assessed after around 15 minutes
- What redness, itching and swelling at the test site can indicate
- Why sensitisation does not necessarily mean you have a clinical allergy
- Why certain medications, particularly antihistamines, may need to be considered before testing
Watch the video below to see how an allergy skin prick test is performed and learn what you can expect during the test.
What is an allergy skin prick test?
Skin prick testing involves placing small amounts of selected allergens onto the skin, usually on the forearm or back, and gently pricking the surface of the skin. If you are sensitised to an allergen, the area may develop a local reaction, such as redness or a small raised, itchy swelling.
Control solutions are also used to help healthcare professionals interpret the test accurately.
How are the results interpreted?
A reaction to an allergen during skin prick testing indicates sensitisation to that allergen. However, a positive test does not automatically mean that the allergen is causing your symptoms.
Your healthcare professional will interpret the results alongside your symptoms, medical history and other relevant information to determine whether you have a clinical allergy.
Do you need to prepare for a skin prick test?
Some medications can affect the results of skin prick testing. In particular, antihistamines may reduce or prevent the expected skin reaction.
Your healthcare professional will tell you whether you need to stop or adjust any medication before testing. Do not stop taking prescribed medication unless your healthcare professional specifically advises you to do so.
What happens after the test?
The results are usually assessed after a short waiting period, often around 15 minutes. Your healthcare professional will discuss the findings with you and explain what they mean in the context of your symptoms.
Understanding your test results can help identify potential allergy triggers and support decisions about further investigation, allergen avoidance, and treatment.
Please note: This video is for educational purposes and does not replace medical advice, diagnosis or treatment from a qualified healthcare professional. Allergy test results should always be interpreted in the context of your symptoms and medical history.
