How We Diagnose
AllergyMD provides comprehensive on-site allergy and immunology testing — most patients leave their first visit with a clear diagnosis.
Accurate diagnosis is the foundation of effective allergy and asthma care. Our practice provides a full range of in-office testing methods, from quick skin tests to longer-term patch testing and oral food challenges. We'll recommend the right combination based on your symptoms and history.
Skin Prick Testing
Quick, in-office testing where small amounts of allergen extracts are placed on the skin and gently pricked through the surface. Reactions appear as small itchy bumps within 15-20 minutes. We use this for environmental allergens (pollens, dust mites, pets, mold), food allergens, and some medications.
Important prep note: Oral antihistamines must be stopped 7 days before skin prick testing for accurate results.
Intradermal Testing
A more sensitive form of skin testing where a small amount of allergen is injected just under the surface of the skin. We typically use this for environmental allergens and certain medication allergies, often as a follow-up when skin prick testing is inconclusive.
Patch Testing
Used to identify contact dermatitis triggers — substances that cause skin rashes after physical contact. Patches containing common allergens (chemicals in lotions, detergents, fragrances, metals) are placed on the back and worn for 48 hours, with follow-up readings at 5 and 7 days. This testing identifies delayed-type allergic reactions that other tests can't catch.
Spirometry (pulmonary function testing)
A quick breathing test where you blow into a device to measure how well your lungs work. We use this to evaluate asthma, monitor treatment response, and assess respiratory symptoms. Testing takes about 15-20 minutes and is performed on-site.
Oral Food Challenges
The gold standard for diagnosing IgE-mediated food allergies. You'll bring the suspected food to the office, and we'll administer it in gradually increasing amounts under direct medical supervision. Food challenges allow us to definitively confirm or rule out a food allergy, and are essential for monitoring whether children have outgrown previously diagnosed allergies.
What to Expect During Your Visit
Stop antihistamines beforehand
If you're scheduled for skin prick or intradermal testing, stop oral antihistamines (Zyrtec, Allegra, Claritin, Benadryl) 7 days before your visit. They blunt skin test reactions and lead to false negatives. Continue all other medications unless we tell you otherwise.
Bring your medication list
Including any over-the-counter medications, supplements, and inhalers. We'll want to know about anything you've taken recently.
Plan for 60-90 minutes
First-visit testing typically takes about an hour, sometimes longer if multiple test types are needed. Skin testing reactions develop over 15-20 minutes, so there's some built-in waiting time.
Wear comfortable clothing
Skin testing is done on the back or arms, so loose clothing or short sleeves makes the process easier. Children may want to bring a snack or activity for the testing wait time.
Ready to get answers about your allergies?
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Lee to discuss which tests are right for you.