Testing for Causes of An Allergic Emergency

Testing for the causes of an allergic emergency involves having a skin, blood, or challenge test done to determine the presence of specific antibodies which are special proteins made by the body’s immune system. These tests can help identify specific foods, stinging and biting insects, or medications as likely causes of an allergic emergency.

In general, skin tests can detect antibodies and are the most common way to identify potential causes of an allergy or the triggers for an allergic emergency (ie, penicillin, insect stings, foods).

These tests can be done for children or adults. Test results alone do not diagnose allergies, so all test results must be interpreted together with your medical history. Your health care professional will determine which test, if any, is right for you.