ALLERGIES
In recent years, allergies have become an increasingly significant health concern. One in five people in Germany suffers from hay fever (allergic rhinitis). Allergies can considerably affect quality of life and may contribute to the development of bronchial asthma.
Our practice offers comprehensive diagnostic testing for various allergic conditions affecting the upper respiratory tract, including:
- Skin prick testing
- RAST testing (blood tests for allergen-specific IgE antibodies)
- Nasal and conjunctival provocation tests
In addition, we specialise in the diagnosis of food allergies and various forms of intolerance, including histamine intolerance, sulphite intolerance and acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) intolerance.
We offer our patients modern treatment options for allergic conditions, including allergen-specific immunotherapy (AIT) administered through subcutaneous injections or sublingual treatment, as well as symptomatic treatment to relieve allergic symptoms.
DIAGNOSIS
Routine Allergy Testing
At our practice, routine allergy testing is performed for patients experiencing nasal symptoms (nasal congestion, runny nose, sneezing) or conjunctival symptoms (redness of the eyes, itching, or a foreign body sensation in the eyes).
Routine allergy testing includes skin prick testing and blood testing for allergen-specific IgE antibodies (RAST test).
The skin prick test is performed first.
Skin Prick Test
The skin prick test is a standardised diagnostic procedure used to detect immediate allergic reactions. During the test, a small lancet is used to make superficial punctures in the outer layer of the skin on the forearm. Standardised allergens are applied to these areas.
After approximately 15 minutes, the results can be assessed by observing the skin's reaction, such as redness or the formation of raised wheals.
Please note that certain medications may lead to false-negative test results. This applies particularly to corticosteroids (cortisone and its derivatives) and antihistamines, such as cetirizine and loratadine.
If the skin prick test produces a positive result and the patient presents with corresponding clinical symptoms, these findings are generally sufficient to establish an allergy diagnosis and determine whether treatment is indicated.
Blood Test – RAST (Radioallergosorbent Test)
This test is performed when the skin prick test produces a negative result or cannot be carried out, for example, due to certain medications or other medical conditions.
The RAST test involves taking a blood sample to detect specific immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies, which serve as markers of allergic sensitisation. These antibodies are directed against particular allergens, such as pollen, house dust mites and other potential allergy triggers. The blood sample is analysed in a laboratory.
The doctor receives a laboratory report indicating the level of sensitisation to each tested allergen on a scale from 1 to 4. By evaluating these results alongside the patient's medical history and clinical symptoms, the doctor can determine whether an allergy is likely to be present.
Allergy Provocation Tests
Allergy provocation testing is a further diagnostic option used to confirm an allergy, particularly in patients who experience symptoms suggestive of an allergic reaction despite negative results from skin prick tests and blood tests.
Nasal provocation test (NPT):
The nasal provocation test is a standardized diagnostic instrument for triggering allergic symptoms. In this test, different test allergens are sprayed or nebulized onto the patient’s nasal mucosa. After a few minutes of waiting, nasal running and sneezing attacks can occur, which is evaluated as a positive response. The doctor also measures the nasal air permeability using rhinomanometry (volume flow of air).
Conjunctive provocation test (KPT):
The conjunctive provocation test is a new standardized diagnostic instrument for objectively evaluating allergic symptoms. In this test, different allergens are introduced into the conjunctival sac in the form of eye drops. In case of a positive reaction, after a few minutes of waiting, a redness of the conjunctiva, a foreign body sensation, itching, and usually increased tear flow occur.
Since these tests can be influenced by medications, it is always necessary to take them in consultation with the doctor.