Skin Prick Test (Allergen Extracts)
A skin prick test, also called a puncture or scratch test, is a diagnostic procedure used to check for immediate allergic reactions. It involves placing tiny drops of purified allergen extracts on the skin surface (usually the forearm or back) and gently pricking the skin beneath the drops using a sterile lancet to allow the allergen to enter the epidermal layer.
Dosage by Body Weight
Administered solely by qualified healthcare professionals in a clinical setting equipped to handle systemic allergic reactions (anaphylaxis). Typically, one drop of each allergen extract, along with a positive histamine control and a negative saline control, is applied to the skin and pricked. Results are evaluated after 15 to 20 minutes by measuring the size of the wheal and flare reaction.
- Body Weight
- Below 5 kg
- Dose
- Not recommended
- Frequency
- N/A
- Tracking Notes
- Testing is generally avoided in young infants under 6 months due to lower skin reactivity and the rare risk of systemic reactions.
- Body Weight
- 5-7 kg
- Dose
- 1 drop per allergen tested
- Frequency
- Single diagnostic session
- Tracking Notes
- Perform only if highly clinically indicated. Number of allergens tested should be minimized.
- Body Weight
- 8-10 kg
- Dose
- 1 drop per allergen tested
- Frequency
- Single diagnostic session
- Tracking Notes
- Administer under direct medical supervision. Antihistamines must be discontinued 3-7 days prior to testing.
- Body Weight
- 11-15 kg
- Dose
- 1 drop per allergen tested
- Frequency
- Single diagnostic session
- Tracking Notes
- Standard pediatric administration. Keep emergency resuscitation equipment (epinephrine) readily available.
- Body Weight
- 16-20 kg
- Dose
- 1 drop per allergen tested
- Frequency
- Single diagnostic session
- Tracking Notes
- Standard pediatric administration. Ensure the patient has not taken oral antihistamines, tricyclic antidepressants, or certain beta-blockers prior to the test.
| Body Weight | Dose | Frequency | Tracking Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Below 5 kg | Not recommended | N/A | Testing is generally avoided in young infants under 6 months due to lower skin reactivity and the rare risk of systemic reactions. |
| 5-7 kg | 1 drop per allergen tested | Single diagnostic session | Perform only if highly clinically indicated. Number of allergens tested should be minimized. |
| 8-10 kg | 1 drop per allergen tested | Single diagnostic session | Administer under direct medical supervision. Antihistamines must be discontinued 3-7 days prior to testing. |
| 11-15 kg | 1 drop per allergen tested | Single diagnostic session | Standard pediatric administration. Keep emergency resuscitation equipment (epinephrine) readily available. |
| 16-20 kg | 1 drop per allergen tested | Single diagnostic session | Standard pediatric administration. Ensure the patient has not taken oral antihistamines, tricyclic antidepressants, or certain beta-blockers prior to the test. |
Formulation
Purpose
Used to diagnose immediate IgE-mediated allergic reactions to specific substances such as pollen, mold, pet dander, dust mites, foods, and insect venom.
Generic Name
Allergen ExtractsBranded Drug Names
Skin Prick Test (Allergen Extracts) is listed as a generic drug name. Common branded medicines that may contain the same active ingredient include:
Scheduled Drug
No. This medicine is generally not treated as a scheduled/prescription-only drug in common consumer references, but local rules may vary.