Allergy testing
Alternative names:
patch tests (allergy); RAST test; scratch tests (allergy); skin tests - allergy
Normal values:
In a nonallergic person, allergy tests should be negative (no response to the allergen).
What abnormal results mean:
Most often, a positive test indicates an allergy to the substance in question. The skin tests are most reliable when testing for airborne substances (such as animal dander or pollen). However, if the dose of allergen is excessive, a positive reaction will occur even in persons who are not allergic.
Additional conditions under which the test may be performed:
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