Skin prick allergy test

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Picture of a person having a skin prick allergy test

Illustration copyright 2003 Nucleus Communications, Inc. All rights reserved. http://www.nucleusinc.com

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.

Medical Review:Caroline S. Rhoads, MD - Internal Medicine
Harold S. Nelson, MD - Allergy and Immunology
Last Updated: 08/08/2007

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