Evidence-based allergy testing

How do you know if you are getting evidence-based allergy testing?

Allergy & Anaphylaxis Australia (A&AA) is concerned about allergy testing that is not evidence-based leading to people not getting the best allergy care available to them.

Tests that are not evidence-based can lead to people avoiding foods and other possible allergens (such as grass or dust mites) that they do not need to. This can also lead to a delaying in being properly diagnosed and receiving appropriate treatment and advice about how to manage the allergy if you/your child have one. A positive skin prick test or blood test does not necessarily mean that a person is allergic to a food or other allergen. Information on clinical history (what you tell the doctor about past exposures and reactions) is essential when diagnosing an allergy. The Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy (ASCIA) has recently put together a helpful FAQ to assist you with knowing if the allergy testing you are having is evidence-based. 

Australia has many qualified clinical immunology/allergy specialists. These doctors are trained to perform allergy tests, take a detailed clinical history, and then give you the best advice about how to manage an allergy once you have been diagnosed. Locate an allergy specialist in your area.

Please call 1300 728 000 or contact us at A&AA if you have any questions about evidence-based allergy testing or finding a clinical immunology/allergy specialist.