Dr. Manav Segal, a board certified allergist, demonstrates how he skin tests to identify environmental (seasonal) or food allergies.
He uses plastic prongs. The tip of each tip is dipped in a solution for each allergen. Plastic prongs scratch the surface of the skin.
When allergy cells in the skin (mast cells) are activated by the allergen the skin will become red raised and itchy. Typically this will occur within 15 minutes.
This process can help identify allergic triggers.
Hopefully this video helps you understand the process of skin testing and alleviates any anxiety about testing.
The skin is the largest organ of the body, and there are many skin disorders that can affect patients. If you’re looking to test your knowledge of the ins and outs of diagnostic tests for skin disorders, take our quiz.
Diagnostic Tests for Skin Disorders: bit.ly/3nvwlB7
Quizzes for Medical Professionals and Med Students: mrkmnls.co/3ebpea2
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