Immediate Hypersensitivity Test
500 Kshs | Home Collection Available
Synonyms
Skin test, skin prick test, intradermal test
Purpose
Healthcare providers use the Skin Test, also known as the Immediate Hypersensitivity Test, to detect allergic reactions by measuring levels of immunoglobulin E (IgE), along with IgM and IgG antibodies, in the blood. They commonly prescribe this test for individuals suspected of having allergic responses to environmental allergens, food, or medications.
It is important because it helps identify specific allergens responsible for hypersensitivity reactions, which is essential for managing allergic conditions such as asthma, hay fever, eczema, or anaphylaxis. Early identification allows for targeted treatment and the avoidance of known allergens.
The test can be done alongside Serum-specific IgE testing, Total IgE levels test, Skin prick tests, Patch testing, and Complete Blood Count (CBC).
Patient Preparation
No special preparation needed
Samples
2 mL of whole blood collected in a green-top (heparin) tube is required. Transfer unseparated samples into plastic transport tubes before freezing. Samples are stable while frozen for 14 days.
Reference Range
150 to 1,000 UI/ml
Results Turnaround
2-4 days after sample collection.
Diseases / Diagnostic Indicators
Doctors use this test to diagnose immediate-type hypersensitivity reactions, which occur when the immune system overreacts to allergens.
Elevated IgE levels may indicate conditions such as:
- Allergic rhinitis (hay fever)
- Asthma
- Atopic dermatitis (eczema)
- Food allergies
- Drug allergies
- Anaphylaxis
A positive test result may suggest the immune system is sensitized to a specific allergen, leading to symptoms like hives, swelling, sneezing, coughing, wheezing, or, in severe cases, anaphylactic shock.
A negative result typically means there’s no immediate hypersensitivity to the substances tested, but it doesn’t completely rule out other forms of allergy or delayed reactions.
For more on skin testing, read this study.