What Is a Skin Prick Test?
A skin prick test is used to identify immediate allergic reactions (IgE-mediated allergies).
During the test, tiny drops of allergen extracts are placed on your child’s skin, usually on the forearm. A small sterile lancet is then used to gently prick the surface of the skin, allowing a tiny amount of allergen to enter.
If your child is allergic to a particular substance, a small raised bump (known as a wheal) will usually appear within 15 to 20 minutes.
The procedure is not an injection and is generally very well tolerated by babies and children.
Why Might My Child Need a Skin Prick Test?
- Reactions after eating certain foods
- Suspected cow’s milk protein allergy
- Suspected egg allergy
- Persistent eczema where allergy may be contributing
- Swelling following food exposure
- Hay fever or allergic rhinitis
- Suspected environmental allergies such as pollen, pets or house dust mites
What Happens During the Appointment?
Most appointments take approximately 30 minutes.
During the appointment:
- One of our experienced paediatric nurses will explain the procedure to you and your child.
- Small drops of allergen extracts are placed onto your child’s skin, usually on the forearm.
- Using a tiny sterile lancet, the nurse gently pricks the surface of the skin. This is not an injection and most children describe it as feeling like a light scratch.
- After approximately 15 to 20 minutes, the nurse measures the results.
- Your consultant will then review the findings alongside your child’s symptoms and medical history before explaining the results and discussing any further treatment or investigations if required.
Our experienced team will do everything possible to help your child feel calm, comfortable and reassured throughout their appointment.
Preparing for Your Appointment
To ensure accurate results, please:
- Stop antihistamines for at least 72 hours before your appointment unless your consultant has advised otherwise.
- Continue all other prescribed medication unless you have been told differently.
If you are unsure whether your child’s medication should be stopped before the appointment, please contact our team for advice.
Understanding the Results
A positive skin prick test does not automatically mean your child has an allergy.
Similarly, a negative result does not exclude every type of allergic condition.
Skin prick testing identifies immediate (IgE-mediated) allergies but cannot diagnose delayed allergic reactions or food intolerances.
For this reason, every result is interpreted by your consultant alongside your child’s symptoms, medical history and any additional investigations. This ensures the most accurate diagnosis and helps avoid unnecessary dietary restrictions or treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a skin prick test hurt?
Most children describe the test as feeling like a small scratch. It is quick, safe and generally very well tolerated.