Ofnæmisprófa

Ofnæmisprófa, which translates to allergy testing in English, refers to a diagnostic procedure used to identify substances that cause an allergic reaction in an individual. These tests are crucial for people experiencing symptoms such as skin rashes, hives, sneezing, itching, or more severe anaphylactic reactions, which suggest a potential allergy. The goal of allergy testing is to pinpoint the specific allergen, allowing for targeted avoidance strategies and appropriate medical management.

There are several common types of allergy tests. Skin prick testing is one of the most widely used methods. In this procedure, a small amount of suspected allergen is pricked into the skin's surface, usually on the forearm or back. If the individual is allergic, a raised, itchy bump (wheal) will appear at the site within 15-20 minutes. Another method is intradermal testing, where the allergen is injected just under the skin. This is often used for insect venom or penicillin allergies. For certain allergies, particularly to foods, a blood test known as IgE testing (immunoglobulin E) may be performed. This test measures the amount of specific IgE antibodies in the blood that are produced in response to particular allergens. Patch testing is used to diagnose contact dermatitis, where allergens are applied to the skin under patches and left for 24-48 hours to observe for delayed reactions.

Allergy testing should always be conducted by a trained healthcare professional, such as an allergist or immunologist, in a setting equipped to manage any severe reactions. The results, combined with the patient's medical history and symptom presentation, help form a comprehensive diagnosis and guide treatment plans.