A skin blood test is a blood test used to identify allergies. It measures the levels of Immunoglobulin E (IgE) in your blood. IgE is an antibody that your body produces when it's exposed to an allergen. Higher levels of IgE can indicate an allergy.
Your healthcare provider may order a skin blood test if you have symptoms of an allergy, such as sneezing, coughing, itchy eyes, or skin rash. This test can be used to confirm an allergy diagnosis or to identify the specific allergen that you are allergic to.
Skin blood tests are generally considered safe, but there are some risks associated with any blood test, such as bruising or bleeding at the puncture site. The results of the test are usually available within a few days.
Other types of blood tests can also be used to diagnose skin conditions, such as:
- Complete Blood Count (CBC): This test measures the number of different types of blood cells in your blood. It can be used to diagnose infections, anemia, and other blood disorders.
- Autoantibody Tests: These tests measure the levels of antibodies that attack your own body's tissues. They can be used to diagnose autoimmune disorders, such as lupus and rheumatoid arthritis.
Skin blood tests are different from skin prick tests, another common type of allergy test. Skin prick tests are performed by pricking the skin with a small amount of allergen. This test can be used to identify immediate allergic reactions, but it is not as accurate as a skin blood test.
In summary, skin blood tests are a useful tool for diagnosing allergies and identifying specific allergens. They are generally safe and reliable, but it is important to discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider before having the test.