Respiratory allergy testing

About Respiratory allergy testing

Respiratory allergy testing identifies the specific aeroallergens — tree, grass, weed pollens, dust mites, molds, animal dander, cockroach — driving allergic rhinitis and asthma symptoms. Skin-prick testing is rapid, sensitive, and inexpensive; serum specific-IgE testing is useful when skin testing is contraindicated (severe skin disease, antihistamine dependence, history of anaphylaxis). Results are always interpreted in light of clinical history. Identifying culprits enables targeted environmental control, more focused medication choices, and consideration of subcutaneous or sublingual immunotherapy for selected allergens.