Skin prick testing is performed at your doctor’s office or medical
clinic. These tests are the most sensitive tests for confirming allergic
triggers for asthma and are generally safe and quick. Certain medicines
such as antihistamines need to be stopped 3-7 days before skin prick
testing.
Skin prick testing is usually done on the forearm, although it is
sometimes done on the back instead. A drop of allergen extract is placed
onto a marked area of skin and then a small prick through the drop is
made. This allows a small amount of allergen to enter the skin. If you
are allergic to the allergen being tested, a small red lump or wheal
will appear after 15–20 minutes. Your doctor will advise you as to what
happens next.
