Preparing for allergy testing
Preparation depends on the type of test. The blood test needs no special preparation, while skin tests have clear rules.
Preparation depends on the type of test
There is no single rule for all allergy tests. What you need to do beforehand differs according to the method your doctor has chosen.
Specific IgE blood testing
As a rule, no special preparation is needed.
Antihistamines do not affect the serum specific IgE result, so they do not have to be stopped before the blood sample is taken.
Skin prick test
Your doctor may recommend stopping antihistamines a few days beforehand, at least 5 days, because they can reduce the skin reaction and lead to false negative results. The exact duration depends on the type of antihistamine and on your doctor’s advice.
Important treatments must not be stopped, such as those for asthma, heart conditions, blood pressure or other chronic diseases, without medical advice.
Patch testing
Preparation is different here. The area where the patches are applied must be clean, without significant active lesions and without recent application of topical corticosteroids to the tested area.
After the patches are applied, avoid getting the area wet, avoid heavy sweating, and do not peel the patches off before the reading.