Saint Francis Care, Hartford Connecticut - ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY, ACCOMPLISHED PHYSICIANS, AMAZING RESULTS


Health Information
Back

Back to Health Library   Print This Page     Email to a Friend 
< back

Allergy skin prick or scratch test

One of the most common methods of allergy testing is the scratch test or skin prick test. The test involves placing a small amount of the suspected allergy-causing substance (allergen) on the skin (usually the forearm, upper arm, or the back), and then scratching or pricking the skin so that the allergen is introduced under the skin surface. The skin is observed closely for signs of a reaction, which usually includes swelling and redness of the site. With this test, several suspected allergens can be tested at the same time, and results are usually obtained within about 20 minutes.
Allergy skin prick or scratch test



Review Date: 8/19/2004 12:00:00 AM
Reviewed By: A.D.A.M. Medical Illustration Team

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2002 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.

adam.com




Saint Francis Care
114 Woodland Street
Hartford, Connecticut 06105
(860) 714-4000

 
home site map directions contact us