Allergies are also called hypersensitivity. The immune system of the body becomes oversensitive to certain drugs, food or, substances and causes an allergy. One of the tests used to effectively diagnose the type of allergen or allergy-causing substance is the skin prick allergy test. The test is used to detect many allergens and is regarded by physicians as the gold standard for allergy testing.

There are four types of hypersensitivities classified as Type I, II, III and, IV. Skin prick allergy tests are performed to diagnose Type I hypersensitivity. Type I hypersensitivity consists of some of the most common allergy-causing allergens. An allergic reaction to these allergens results in skin eruptions, redness, runny nose, stomach problems, teary eyes, itching swelling, and in advanced cases, breathing difficulties and, a drop in blood pressure. The physician will take the health history of the patient and assess the possible allergens that could cause the allergic reaction. The physician may diagnose the allergen after testing the patient for four to forty substances using the skin prick allergy test. Skin prick allergy tests are safe and performed for patients of all ages. The test is not painful and patients will feel mild discomfort when the nurse pricks their skin.

The test is performed by a nurse and the physician assesses the reaction of the patient to the test. A small drop of the possible allergen is placed on the arm or back of the patient. The skin is pricked so that the allergen seeps into the skin and the reaction of the patient is reviewed by the physician. The nurse will mark the position of the prick to show the allergen tested. After about 15 minutes, the allergen will be diagnosed when the physician notices that the skin of the patient is inflamed and itchy. The whole procedure usually takes about an hour. The time taken depends on the number of allergens that are tested on the skin of the patient.

Skin prick allergy tests are used to diagnose:

Allergies caused by exposure to mold
Allergies caused by exposure to pollen
Allergies caused by exposure to dust
Allergies caused by food. ( skin prick allergy tests have proven to be the best diagnostic method for food allergies.
Allergies caused by bee venom
Allergies are caused by a reaction to penicillin and medications related to penicillin. ( These are the only drug-related allergens that can be diagnosed by skin prick allergy tests. It is dangerous to use skin prick allergy testing to diagnose allergies caused by a reaction to other drugs)

Skin prick allergy testing is used by physicians to diagnose allergic reactions that result in skin eruptions, asthma, reactions to food and, reactions to penicillin and penicillin-related medications. The skin prick allergy test is reliable, inexpensive and, painless. Physicians quickly diagnose the allergen causing the allergy and treat patients giving them long-term relief.