Allergiatestausmenetelmä

Allergiatestausmenetelmä is a Finnish term referring to allergy testing methods. These methods are used to identify specific substances, or allergens, that trigger an allergic reaction in an individual. The goal of allergy testing is to diagnose the cause of symptoms such as itching, hives, sneezing, or breathing difficulties, which can be indicative of an allergy.

There are several common allergy testing methods. One widely used technique is the skin prick test, often referred to as a puncture test. In this procedure, a small amount of a suspected allergen is introduced into the skin's surface, typically on the forearm or back. If the person is allergic to that substance, a localized reaction, such as redness and swelling, will appear at the test site within a short period.

Another approach is the intradermal skin test, where the allergen is injected just under the skin. This method is generally more sensitive than the prick test and may be used for specific allergens or when the prick test results are inconclusive. Blood tests, such as the specific IgE test (RAST or ImmunoCAP), are also employed. These tests measure the amount of immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies in the blood that are specific to certain allergens. Elevated levels of IgE antibodies suggest a sensitization to that allergen.

In some cases, a provocation test might be performed, where the suspected allergen is administered directly to the organ or system suspected of reacting, such as inhaling an allergen to test for asthma. This is usually done under strict medical supervision due to the potential for severe reactions. The choice of allergy testing method depends on the suspected allergens, the patient's symptoms, and the clinician's judgment. Accurate diagnosis through these methods allows for appropriate management strategies, including allergen avoidance and medical treatment.