Allergen Skin Testing in Santa Barbara, CA
A vital part of managing any allergy is to properly diagnose it first. The variety of tests performed to determine a child’s particular allergy (or allergies) is known as allergy testing. An even more specific type of allergy testing is an allergy skin test.
An allergy skin test is used to investigate multiple potential allergens at the same time. There are three different kinds of skin tests that may be utilized. Dr. Barry is a board-certified pediatrician with extensive experience diagnosing allergies in children. Call (805) 845-1221 to schedule an appointment at our pediatric clinic in Santa Barbara today!
The Scratch Test
Usually, one of the first allergy tests performed, the scratch test involves placing the liquid form of an allergen on the skin by pricking it with a small needle. Because many allergens are tested at the same time, Dr. Charish Barry will systematically position all of the allergens across a large surface area of the body (usually on the arm or back).
The patient is then closely monitored to see how their skin reacts, and which allergens appear to be causing the reaction.
The Patch Test
If the allergist suspects any particular allergens that may be causing your child’s symptoms, they will likely conduct a patch test.
This assessment uses an adhesive patch that is coated with a specific substance, which is worn for approximately 48 hours, making it especially useful when trying to detect any sort of delayed allergic reaction.
The Injection Test
Similar to the scratch test, the injection allergy test requires a dose of the potential allergen to be administered directly onto the child’s skin. The major difference between the two tests is that the injection is aimed at getting the allergen beneath the dermal layer of the skin, whereas the scratch test is merely on the surface.
See An Allergy Specialist Today!
If you are concerned about your child and whether or not they may have an allergy, it is always best to seek the advice of a licensed professional. At Petite Pediatrics, we specialize in a variety of allergy and immunology tests. Each of our physicians are also personally dedicated to making sure that you and your family are prepared to handle an allergic reaction should you ever need to.
To schedule an appointment with Dr. Charish Barry, please call our pediatric clinic in Santa Barbara at (805) 845-1221 today.
