During allergy skin tests, your skin is exposed to suspected allergy-causing substances (allergens) and is then observed for signs of an allergic reaction. Skin tests are safe for adults and children of all ages. Information from allergy tests may help your doctor develop an allergy treatment plan that includes allergen avoidance and medications.

Allergy skin tests are widely used to help diagnose allergic conditions, including:

• Food allergies
• Drug allergies (beta-lactam antibiotics and anaesthetic drugs)
• Hay fever (allergic rhinitis)
• Allergic asthma
• Dermatitis (eczema)
• Allergic Broncho-pulmonary Aspergillosis (ABPA)
• Urticaria (hives)/ angioedema (swelling)
• Latex allergy

The most common side effect of skin testing is slightly swollen, red, itchy bumps (wheals). These wheals may be most noticeable during the test. In some people, though, an area of swelling, redness and itching may develop a few hours after the test and persist for as long as a couple of days.