For Providers

Allergy Testing Advantages & Limitations

So what are the advantages and limitations of allergy skin testing and blood testing through our ImmunoCAP Reference Laboratory?

Method comparison

Skin testing vs. in vitro testing

  • ADVANTAGES

    • Immediate results
    • Enables you to track delayed reactions
    • Typically more sensitive than in-vitro tests
    • Potential revenue stream to practice

    LIMITATIONS

    • More difficult for needle averse
    • Not for all patient populations – infants, needle averse, severe anaphylaxis risk, skin disease
    • Requires suspension of some medications before testing
    • Not recommended for food testing diagnosis
    • Staff and materials required
  • ADVANTAGES

    • Low risk for highly sensitive patients
    • Requires little staff time or overhead
    • Allows additional tests at a later date with serum sample
    • Medication suspension not required before testing
    • Ideal for testing food allergy
    • Quantifiable measure
    • Revenue stream in some states where allowed

    LIMITATIONS

    • Results available within 3-5 days
    • Less sensitive than skin testing
    • Can be more costly than skin testing

Keep reading

More on allergy testing diagnostics

Next step

Offer allergy drops in your practice

Request a call and see how the La Crosse Method™ Protocol fits your workflow.