Allergy Skin Test (Skin Prick Test)
Skin prick testing for nasal and sinus allergy when clinically indicated
Medically reviewed by a board-certified ENT specialist
- Author:
- Dr. Poj Pinyopornpanish — Otolaryngologist · Thai Board of Otolaryngology
- Medical reviewer:
- Dr. Poj Pinyopornpanish — Otolaryngologist · Thai Board of Otolaryngology
- Reviewed on:
- Last updated:
- Estimated reading time: 4 min
Overview
What is skin prick testing
Skin prick testing (SPT) places small amounts of allergen on the skin and lightly pricks the surface. If you are sensitised, a small wheal and redness appear within 15–20 minutes. The test helps identify allergens that may contribute to nasal congestion, sneezing, runny nose, or sinus symptoms. Results are interpreted together with your history and examination — not in isolation. Not everyone with nasal symptoms needs SPT. Your doctor considers symptoms, duration, and appropriateness. Results guide trigger avoidance and treatment.
Indications
When allergy skin testing may be needed
Testing may be considered when nasal or sinus symptoms suggest allergic rhinitis.
Chronic nasal congestion or sneezing
Persistent congestion, sneezing, or runny nose affecting sleep or daily life.
Suspected identifiable triggers
Symptoms in specific settings such as dust, pets, or pollen.
Recurrent sinusitis
Recurrent sinus symptoms with suspected allergic contribution.
Insufficient response to medication
Symptoms not well controlled despite medication — further assessment may help.
Planning specific treatment
Your doctor may recommend allergy assessment before treatments such as immunotherapy.
Not every blocked nose
Nasal congestion has other causes — such as structural problems or sinus disease. These are assessed before testing.
Preparation
Before your test
Preparation helps reliable and safe testing.
Tell your doctor about current medications, especially antihistamines — some may need temporary withdrawal as advised.
Report drug allergies, skin conditions, or severe breathing problems.
Fasting is usually not required for skin prick testing.
Book in advance and attend at your scheduled time.
Children may need additional assessment depending on age and cooperation.
If you have severe allergy symptoms on the day, contact the clinic before attending.
Procedure
How the test is performed
The visit typically takes about 30–60 minutes including history and result reading.
Pre-test assessment
History of symptoms, triggers, and medications; ear, nose, and throat examination. Your doctor explains steps and limitations of SPT.
Skin preparation
Testing on the forearm or back after cleaning the skin.
Allergen placement and prick
Allergens are placed and lightly pricked through the skin. The panel depends on your history and symptoms.
Reading results
Results are read within 15–20 minutes. Wheal size is recorded and compared with controls.
Summary and plan
Your doctor explains positive findings in context and advises on avoidance or treatment.
Outcomes and recovery
Benefits, risks, and after the test
SPT provides useful information for care planning but has limitations.
Benefits: Helps identify allergens that may contribute to nasal and sinus symptoms.
Limitations: A positive result indicates sensitisation, not always severe clinical allergy. Your doctor interprets results with your symptoms.
Common effects: Mild itch or redness at test sites, usually settling within 1–2 hours.
Less common: Severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) is rare; the clinic is prepared according to standard practice.
After testing: Avoid scratching; you can resume normal activities immediately.
Not every positive result requires strict avoidance — this depends on symptom relevance.
Follow-up: Attend scheduled visits or monitor symptoms as advised.
FAQ
Common questions
Is skin prick testing painful
You may feel mild discomfort like a small scratch — not a deep injection. Results are read in about 15–20 minutes.
Do I need to stop antihistamines
Some medications can affect results. Your doctor advises which drugs to stop and for how long before testing.
Can I be tested while I have symptoms
Usually yes, but tell your doctor about current symptoms and medications. Suitability will be assessed.
Can children have skin prick testing
Yes at certain ages when indicated. Your doctor assesses and explains to parents or caregivers.
What does a positive result mean
It indicates sensitisation (IgE) to that allergen, but does not always mean severe clinical allergy. Your doctor interprets results with your symptoms.
Do I need an appointment
Yes. Appointments are recommended, including preparation advice about medications that may need to be stopped.
References
Related guidelines and patient resources
The sources below are recognized international guidelines and patient-education resources for general learning. They are not individualized medical advice.
Procedure and preparation information for patients
AAO-HNS / ENThealth
View source (AAO-HNS / ENThealth)Patient education and clinical guidance in otolaryngology
American Academy of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery (AAO-HNS)
View source (American Academy of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery (AAO-HNS))Public ENT health information
ENThealth (AAO-HNS Foundation)
View source (ENThealth (AAO-HNS Foundation))
Educational information
Medical Disclaimer
This information is intended for educational purposes only and does not replace diagnosis or treatment by a qualified physician. If you have concerning symptoms, please consult an ENT specialist.
Related links
Learn more
Related clinic pages to help you explore conditions, services, and procedures.
Consult an ENT specialist
If you have chronic nasal symptoms and are interested in allergy testing, book a consultation for appropriate advice.