Allergy testing is an important part of determining exactly why allergic problems are present. The doctors at the Allergy Asthma Care Center, Inc. in Los Angeles and Tarzana, CA can create a customized testing plan for each patient.
Allergy testing is necessary to determine the cause of an allergic reaction. Allergies can evolve over time so it is important to identify the cause of the reaction before it grows to interfere with your life or become life threatening. For example, you would want to know that you have a food allergy before it causes your throat to swell closed or anaphylactic shock. Allergy testing can take several forms including skin prick and skin patch testings. These controlled tests expose the patient to a minute amount of a suspected allergen so that the body’s response can be monitored.
A skin prick test is also known as a “prick” test. In this test, the doctor or medical assistant will make a series of very small punctures on the arm with a plastic device that has 8 heads, and each head will deposit a specific allergen into the skin. Usually, the test will check for reactions to trees, weeds, grass, molds, pet dander, various foods and dust mites. If the mark next to an allergen forms a hive (red bump) after the evaluation period, it indicates a potential allergy to that substance. With this information in hand, the doctor can create an effective treatment plan. Skin testing typically takes about 30-45 mins and your results will be available immediately.
Allergic contact dermatitis occurs when the skin becomes patchy, scaly and inflamed when it comes in contact with a certain chemical substance. The allergen is not always known right away, so patch testing is the best way to identify it in many cases. These chemicals include nickel, preservatives, antibiotics, fragrances, and many others commonly used in household, personal hygiene, and cosmetic products. To perform the test, multiple common allergens are applied to the back in the form of patches, and the results are read 72-96 hours later.
An Important Note about Insurance Many insurance PPO and Medicare plans are accepted. This office is contracted with many plans but it is YOUR responsibility to call your insurance company and verify that we are in your network of covered physicians. This office is not contracted with: Medi-Cal any HMO HealthNet Blue Shield (Covered California, Mirrored, Exclusive Network, Off/On Exchange, Individual / Family Plans).
"I have been suffering from allergies & asthma my whole life, and the doctors at this care center were able to pin point exactly what I needed to take for each problem."
"I have never ever felt rushed during my visits. They have provided me with the best care anyone can get. "
"If you are looking for quality care in a professional and friendly setting, look no further. Allergy Asthma Care Center is the place to go."
