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Allergy Skin Testing
Allergy skin testing is conducted in our office. Drops of suspected allergens
are placed on the upper back. Next, the skin beneath each drop is pricked with
the tip of a small plastic prong. There is very little discomfort because only
the top surface layer is scratched. This can be done in children as young as
one year of age. If allergies are present, a “mosquito bite” like
swelling and itching develops under the drop of allergen within twenty minutes.
The swelling/itching generally disappears within thirty to sixty minutes. Sometimes
this type of prick testing is performed on the forearms instead of the back.
If the prick tests are negative, intradermal testing may be performed. Allergens
are injected just under the skin of the upper arm. A positive response is similar
to that of the prick testing. A positive result to the intradermal testing suggests
a lower degree of allergy, as compared to positive results at the prick level.
Skin testing is not accurate if the patient has used antihistamines. Therefore,
it is very important that the patient not use antihistamines for at least
five days prior to the testing.
Pulmonary Function Test (PFT)
Pulmonary function testing, also known as spirometry, is a series of tests that
measure lung function and capacity of the larger and smaller airways. The test
begins with the patient blowing into a spirometer. The goal is to blow as forcefully
and as long as possible. This is repeated until the patient has demonstrated
three successful exhalations. Next, a nebulized bronchodilator (Albuterol or
Xopenex) is administered. Finally, the patient is again asked to exhale as forcefully
and as long as possible into the spirometer until three successful exhalations
have been captured. The entire test usually takes about 45 minutes in our office.
It is very important that patients do not use their albuterol for 6 hours
prior to the testing, and their Advair, Foradil, or Serevent for 24 hours prior
to testing.
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