Skin Prick Test : The Tiny Scratch That Solves the Big sneeze

India is currently facing a sharp rise in allergic diseases, with experts calling it a "silent epidemic." While allergies were once considered a "western" problem, data now suggests that 20% to 30% of the Indian population suffers from at least one allergic condition, most commonly Allergic Rhinitis, urticaria and Asthma.

Diagnosing specific allergy is not a simple task . It typically involves one of three methods: Detailed history taking & blood tests (measuring total serum IgE ,specific IgE antibodies, eosinophils ), patch tests (for contact dermatitis), or the Skin Prick Test (SPT). While blood tests are useful for those who cannot undergo skin testing, the SPT remains the medical "gold standard" for diagnosing common environmental and food allergies. 
Why opt for the Skin Prick Test?

You should opt for the SPT primarily for its speed and accuracy. Unlike blood tests which take days, SPT provides results in 15–20 minutes, allowing you to leave the clinic with a diagnosis and a plan. It is also cost-effective, minimally invasive, and highly sensitive, meaning it rarely misses a true allergy. 
It should be done only after detailed history of allergens and should include limited numbers of allergens as per geographical location of the patient and history .
Skin prick test helps us to decide targeted therapy for asthma , immunotherapy like SLIT or SCIT and general measures to avoid allergy.

#Goldstandard

DR. ADITI SHAH
Allergologist
Dr. Pravin Taware
Pulmonologist
Aeris Clinic Of Allergy, Chest and Sleep Care, Matunga East, Mumbai