Allergy and Immunology
Allergy occurs when a person's immune system reacts to substances in the environment that are harmless for most people. These substances are known as allergens and include foods, some medicines, insect venom, pollens, animal fur/dander, moulds, house dust mite. Read more via the ASCIA website.
What is Allergy Testing?
Allergy testing is a process used to identify specific substances that trigger allergic reactions in individuals. There are a variety of different ways to test for allergies:
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Skin prick testing is the most convenient method of allergy testing. As results are available within 20 minutes, this allows you to discuss the results with your doctor at the time of testing. Skin prick testing has been shown in clinical studies to improve the accuracy of diagnosis.
Skin prick testing is most commonly performed on the forearm or the back. The skin may be marked with numbers corresponding to the allergens. A drop of allergen extract is introduced into the skin using a device which cuases a small breach in the skin. This allows a small amount of allergen to enter the skin. If you are allergic to the tested allergen, a small itchy lump (wheal) surrounded by a red flare will appear within 15-20 minutes. The size of the wheal is measured and enables the allergist to predict how likely an allergic reaction is to occur.
Skin prick tests are slightly uncomfortable as they become itchy but are usually well tolerated, even by small children, from the age of 6 months.
Skin Prick tests do not detect non IgE mediated allergies.
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Immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies to specific allergens can be measured with a blood test. A blood test may be performed when skin testing is not easily available, when skin conditions such as severe eczema make it difficult to perform skin prick testing, or when a person is taking medications (such as antihistamines) that interfere with accurate skin prick testing.
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A challenge is where small increasing amounts of the suspected allergen is given to your child over a few hours and responses are closely monitored. This testing needs to be done in a hospital by trained nursing staff, under the supervision of the Specialist.
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There are several methods that claim to test for allergy. These include IgG4 testing, cytotoxic food testing, kinesiology, Vega testing, electrodermal testing, pulse testing, reflexology and hair analysis. These tests have not been scientifically validated and may lead to unnecessary dietary changes. The use of these methods is not recommended. Further information on these methods is available on the ASCIA website. See further information here
Not all children need allergy testing, and not all food allergies are detected by allergy testing.
Diagnosis
An initial appointment will determine the presence and nature of any allergies your child may have.
Allergy Action Plan
An allergy action plan provides clear guidance to parents regarding the treatment and management of their child’s allergy in between appointments with their paediatrician.
Regular Follow up
Regular followup of your child’s progress is critical to successful treatment. Followup will vary between weekly checkups to monthly or annual reviews depending on your child’s condition.
