Allergy Testing
After one of our physicians has ordered allergy testing, the Allergy nurses will schedule you a date and time for the testing. You will be given a list of testing codes that will be used to bill for your testing. It is very important that you call your insurance company and verify coverage for each of the codes. Failing to do so could be very costly for you. If the testing is not covered under your insurance plan and you want to proceed with the test, then you will need to contact our Office Manager and make prior arrangements.
One of the following tests will be used to test for your allergies:
RAST testing: A simple blood sample taken from your arm will be sufficient for this test. You will not need to stop any medications for this test to be done. This test is done when a patient would have difficulty stopping certain medications, or there may be a problem with your skin, such as eczema or other problems. This test is a favorite for small children to alleviate the distress of multiple skin tests.
Skin endpoint titration (skin testing - IDT): This testing involves a series of small injections (wheals) that are applied in rows to your skin. The upper, outer arms are used for these tests. The wheals are then measured in 10-15 minutes. This type of testing usually takes about 1-1/2 to 2 hours to complete. You will also need to return to our office the following day for the test wheals to be re-checked. At that time your ordering physician will go over the test results with you and schedule treatment if necessary. It will be essential that the medications are stopped prior to your testing as your scheduling nurse advised. Click here for our list. If the medications are used by you, your testing will be rescheduled or repeated at a later date. Skin endpoint titration (IDT) and RAST are proven procedures used by thousands of American physicians and endorsed by the American Academy of Otolaryngic Allergy.
Multitest II: A device for applying multiple diagnostic allergenic extracts. Provides a quick, covenient and standardized procedure.
Food testing (IPFT): If you are coming for food testing, please complete the two week diet diary and bring it with when you come for your testing.
Your allergy shots or sublingual drops (also known as immunotherapy or desensitization) will be formulated from your specific test results. Click here for information on allergy shots and oral immunotherapy.