17

2022

-

08

Frequent allergies? This test can identify the cause!

The occurrence and development of many diseases in clinical practice are related to exposure to allergens. Most patients with allergic diseases usually only receive treatment to relieve symptoms, without identifying the true cause of the allergy. As a result, they cannot achieve targeted prevention and treatment, leading to a recurrence and worsening of the condition.


Author:

Linyi Maternal and Child Hospital - Editor

Allergen testing,

is one of the common items in physical examinations.

However, many people have questions,

what exactly does allergen testing check?

Today, I will explain

the knowledge about allergen testing.

 

 

Allergen
Image

 

1. What are the classifications of allergens?

The occurrence and development of many diseases in clinical practice are related to exposure to allergens. Most patients with allergic diseases usually only receive treatment to relieve symptoms, without identifying the true cause of the allergy, which makes it impossible to achieve targeted prevention and treatment, leading to recurrent and prolonged conditions. Therefore, it is recommended that patients who frequently experience allergies should undergo allergen screening tests to clarify which type of allergen is causing the allergic reaction, in order to fundamentally solve the problem. Do not underestimate allergies as minor issues and neglect testing and treatment, as this can ultimately lead to serious consequences.

 

Currently, there are many types of allergens that can be tested clinically, and the most common allergens can be divided into two categories:

(1) Food allergens, including egg whites, peanuts, soybeans, milk, beef and lamb, seafood, etc.

(2) Inhalant allergens, including pollen, house dust mites/dust mites, mold, animal fur, and other inhalant substances.

 

2. Which groups of people need to be tested for allergens?

People with chronic eczema, urticaria, chronic dermatitis, allergic rhinitis, allergic conjunctivitis, allergic asthma, psoriasis, chronic diarrhea, etc., can undergo allergen testing. Additionally, those with a family history of allergies or suspected allergic history related to certain contact substances should also undergo allergen testing.

 

3. How is allergen testing conducted?

Currently, allergen testing is performed using blood draws or skin prick tests. Physical examinations generally use blood draw methods, and corticosteroids and antihistamines should be discontinued one week prior to testing.

 

 

4. What should be done if a certain allergen tests positive?

One should try to avoid contact with the substances that cause allergies, reduce the intake of food allergens, and leave environments that lead to inhalant allergies. Since the immune response in the human body is a dynamic process, substances that are not allergic now may become allergic in future tests. It is necessary to assess the situation based on actual conditions, and it is recommended to retest after 6-12 months.

 

 

It is important to remind everyone that in vitro blood tests for allergens are only an auxiliary testing method. Due to individual differences and the complexity of antigen-antibody reactions, special cases may show positive results that do not necessarily indicate an allergy, and negative results do not necessarily mean no allergy. A comprehensive diagnosis should be made in conjunction with medical history, and allergen test reports should be closely interpreted in relation to clinical symptoms under the guidance of a professional physician.

Key words:

Allergen, testing, allergy, allergic