Skin Prick Allergy Test

Picture of a skin prick allergy test

A drop of a solution containing a possible allergen is placed on the skin. Then a series of scratches or needle pricks lets the solution enter the skin. If the skin gets a red, raised itchy area (called a wheal), it usually means that the person is allergic to that allergen.

Credits

ByHealthwise Staff
Primary Medical ReviewerE. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine
Specialist Medical ReviewerRohit K Katial, MD - Allergy and Immunology
Last RevisedJune 30, 2011
By: Healthwise StaffLast Revised: June 30, 2011
Medical Review: E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine
Rohit K Katial, MD - Allergy and Immunology

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