Dr Gautam Kulkarni
An effective way of testing for allergies is by performing a skin prick test.
I can perform this for common allergens which are eaten as well as inhaled.
For fresh fruits, I can perform prick to prick tests!
The test is usually carried out on the inner forearm. (Avoid piriton for 72 hours please!)
A drop of the allergen selected (after taking a detailed history) is placed on the skin.
The skin is then pricked through the drop with the tip of a lancet!
This may feel a bit uncomfortable but not painful.
Even infants less than a year are surprisingly cooperative, I haven't had a child cry yet!
The test results are read in 20 minutes followed by counselling!
In some situations, IgE blood tests may provide additional / complementary information
Please read the leaflet at the bottom of the page on Allergy testing!
Dr Gautam Kulkarni
Chelsfield Park Hospital
Bucks Cross Road, Orpington, Kent BR6 7RG
07394552220