Allergy Testing

Itchy skin, hives, and redness are symptoms of a skin allergy. At Cleaver Medical Group Dermatology in Alpharetta, Canton, Cumming, Dahlonega, Dawsonville, Gainesville, Lavonia, Johns Creek and Toccoa, GA, the dermatologists provide thorough skin allergy testing to pinpoint the cause of your concerns. Cal Cleaver Medical Group Dermatology today or schedule an appointment online to learn more.

What is skin allergy testing?

Skin allergy testing is an assessment that exposes you to a specific allergen — a substance that causes an allergic reaction. An allergy is an immune system overreaction to a normally harmless substance.

If you have an allergy, your body mistakes the substance for a foreign invader. Your immune system produces antibodies to attack the substance, sparking a physical reaction. You can develop hives, rashes, itchy skin, and other uncomfortable symptoms if you have an allergy.

A skin allergy test is the only way to determine which substances you’re allergic to, so your dermatologist can create an appropriate treatment plan.

How do I prepare for skin allergy testing?

Before your skin allergy test, your dermatologist at Cleaver Medical Group Dermatology asks detailed questions about your symptoms and medical history. They also ask about your family history to pinpoint conditions that run in your family. Finally, your dermatologist performs a physical exam to rule out underlying conditions.

About a week to 10 days before the test, your dermatologist could ask you to stop taking certain medications, like heartburn medicine, antihistamines, and antidepressants.

What kinds of skin allergy testing are there?

Patch Testing: 

Patch testing is generally done to see whether a particular substance is causing allergic skin inflammation (contact dermatitis). Patch tests can detect delayed allergic reactions, which can take several days to develop. Patch tests don't use needles.  We offer this type of allergy testing in our clinic.

What if my skin allergy test is positive?

If you’re allergic to a particular substance, your dermatologist at Cleaver Medical Group Dermatology could recommend:

• Trigger avoidance
• Medication
• Immunotherapy
• Dietary, lifestyle, and environmental changes
• Oral corticosteroids
• Antihistamines

Call Cleaver Medical Group Dermatology today or schedule an appointment online to learn more about skin allergy testing.