Intradermal allergy test reactions
Intradermal allergy testing is another method of skin testing to help determine whether an individual is allergic to a specific allergen. The test involves injection of a small amount of the suspected allergen under the surface of the skin. After about 20 minutes the area is examined for a reaction at the site. A typical reaction looks like a small hive with swelling and redness. The intradermal test is more sensitive than the skin prick test and can usually provide more consistent results.
Review Date: 05/25/2009
Reviewed By: Stuart I. Henochowicz, MD, FACP, Associate Clinical Professor of
Medicine, Division of Allergy, Immunology, and Rheumatology,
Georgetown University Medical School. Also reviewed by David Zieve,
MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
