Provokaatiotestaus

Provokaatiotestaus, often translated as provocation testing or challenge testing, is a diagnostic procedure used to assess the body's response to specific stimuli. This method is commonly employed in allergy testing to identify or confirm hypersensitivity to particular substances. During a provocation test, a controlled and gradually increasing dose of a suspected allergen is administered to the patient, typically under medical supervision. This can be done orally, by inhalation, or through skin contact, depending on the suspected allergy. The healthcare professional closely monitors the patient for any signs or symptoms of an allergic reaction, such as hives, difficulty breathing, or digestive distress.

The primary goal of provocation testing is to determine the threshold dose at which an allergic reaction occurs, providing a definitive diagnosis when other tests are inconclusive. It is considered the gold standard for diagnosing certain allergies, particularly food allergies. However, due to the inherent risk of triggering a severe allergic reaction, these tests are only performed in a controlled clinical setting by trained medical personnel equipped to manage anaphylaxis. The results help in developing personalized management plans, including avoidance strategies and emergency treatment protocols. Provocation testing is also used in other medical fields, such as ophthalmology to diagnose conditions like glaucoma, where intraocular pressure is challenged with specific stimuli.