What tests are done for cat allergies? - briefly
To diagnose cat allergies, healthcare professionals typically perform skin prick tests or blood tests. These methods help identify specific antibodies produced in response to cat dander.
What tests are done for cat allergies? - in detail
To determine if an individual is allergic to cats, several diagnostic tests can be performed. The most common and reliable methods include skin prick tests, blood tests, and patch tests.
Skin prick tests are often the first line of defense in diagnosing cat allergies. During this procedure, a small amount of cat allergen extract is placed on the skin, usually on the forearm or back. The skin is then gently pricked with a sterile needle to allow the allergen to penetrate. If the individual is allergic to cats, a red, itchy bump called a wheal will develop within 15-20 minutes. This reaction indicates that the immune system has released histamine in response to the cat allergen.
Blood tests are another effective method for diagnosing cat allergies. The most commonly used blood test is the ImmunoCap or similar assay, which measures the amount of specific IgE antibodies in the blood. These antibodies are produced by the immune system when it encounters an allergen. A high level of IgE specific to cat dander indicates a likely allergy. Blood tests are less sensitive than skin prick tests but can be useful for individuals who cannot undergo skin testing due to conditions like eczema or those taking certain medications that might interfere with the test results.
Patch tests, although less commonly used for diagnosing cat allergies, can provide additional information. In a patch test, a small amount of cat allergen is applied to the skin and covered with an adhesive patch. The patch is left in place for 48 hours, after which the skin is examined for any reaction. Patch tests are more commonly used to diagnose contact dermatitis but can be employed when other test methods are inconclusive or not feasible.
In some cases, a doctor may recommend a challenge test, where the individual spends time with cats in a controlled environment under medical supervision. This approach is less common and typically reserved for cases where standard tests are inconclusive or do not correlate well with symptoms.
Overall, these diagnostic methods help healthcare professionals identify cat allergies accurately, allowing for appropriate management strategies to be implemented.