Testing
Allergy tests for frequent allergic complaints and symptoms
An allergy test is advisable if allergic symptoms occur frequently. These include, for example, a runny nose, eye and mucous membrane irritation, coughing, cold symptoms, hives, diarrhea, or – in extreme cases – even an unexpected allergic shock.
Allergy Analysis Alex²
The Alex² allergy test comprehensively tests for 295 different allergens. Based on the composition of our test panel of allergen extracts and molecular allergens, this results in a virtually complete and accurate assessment. full image of your sensitization status. For the examination, a small blood sample of 0,5 ml of native blood from your fingertip or 0,5 ml of native blood drawn venously is sufficient. You will then receive a detailed report of your sensitization status after one week, which will subsequently be discussed with one of our dermatologists. Further information can be found [here/on our website/etc.]. .
Prick test
A prick test is performed when a type I allergy, also known as an "immediate-type" allergy, is suspected. With these allergies, the corresponding symptoms appear within seconds or minutes of contact with the allergen. A defined allergen extract is applied to the skin and then gently pricked with a lancet so that the substance penetrates the epidermis. The test reaction can be read after 20 minutes by comparing it to two blank tests (a positive control with histamine and a negative control without the active ingredient, using physiological saline solution). The prick test is usually painless.
IC testing (intracutaneous testing)
In this test, a defined amount of an allergen extract is injected intradermally and read after 20 minutes against a blank test (so). Because the amount of allergen is larger than in the prick test, the reactions can be stronger. The intradermal test (IC test) is used when the prick test is inconclusive, especially in cases of suspected house dust mite and insect venom allergies, or to clarify certain drug allergies.
Scratch testing
In some cases, it can be useful to test materials directly. The skin is then scratched in a controlled manner, and a suspension of the material (e.g., self-collected bed dust) is applied. Scratch testing is primarily used for drug testing. In a scratch test, the allergy test solutions penetrate deeper into the skin through the small scratches than through the tiny needle pricks of a prick test. As with a prick test, a possible allergic reaction will be present after 20 minutes.
Epicutaneous test
This test is used to detect so-called type IV sensitization. Classic examples include contact allergies such as nickel allergy. In type IV allergies, the allergic reaction is delayed. Defined preparations of the allergens in carrier substances (such as petroleum jelly or water) are applied to the skin under test chambers. The test results are then typically read after 24, 48, and 72 hours.
Blood test (RAST values)
The RAST test (radioallergosorbent test) shows how many specific, allergy-triggering antibodies (IgE) are present in the blood. A RAST test can be performed in certain circumstances for immediate-type (type I) allergies. The RAST test is often used as a further examination after allergy skin tests (e.g., prick test) to determine the severity of the sensitization or allergy.
