What is a Skin Prick Allergy Test

Why do I need a Skin Prick Test?



A skin prick test can help a doctor diagnose and treat the symptoms you are suffering from. These include a runny nose, sneezing, itchy eyes, cough or breathlessness.

What allergens are tested?



Air-borne allergens are transported through the air into the nose or airways, where they trigger an allergic reaction. We test for an allergic reaction to the most common allergy triggers in Singapore. These may include mould spores, fur from pets, the house dust mite and grass pollen.



Are there any risks?



If you suffer from asthma, there is a slight risk that you could become wheezy or suffer an asthma attack in the 24 hours after the test. We advise you to bring your inhalers to the clinic and keep them near you in the 24 hours following the test.



How do I prepare for the test?



If you are taking anti-histamine tablets, you need to stop taking them 5 days before the test. Histamine is released by the body during an allergic reaction and anti-histamines block its release. This would affect the results of the test.



How is a Skin Prick Test done?

The skin prick test is done on the forearm. A numbered grid is drawn on your arm using a marker pen. A multi-prick applicator containing 10 different allergens is used to prick the outer layer of skin using light pressure. This facilitates an allergic response.



You will then be asked to sit in the waiting room. After 15 minutes, you will be called back through the nurse to examine the results. When there is a localised allergic reaction, you may see a red, itchy and swollen lump called a “wheal”.


When will I know the results



You will be given the test results straightaway. If these wheals irritate you, we can provide you with some steroid cream, which will help reduce the redness and itch.