Allergy & Intradermal Skin Testing
Intradermal allergy testing — similar to the skin prick test in humans — is the reference test for identifying the allergens that are troubling your pet.
Intradermal allergy testing in clinic
Finding the exact triggers, so treatment can be specific.
A dermatology consultation is generally indicated before confirming the need for intradermal allergy testing. Many dermatological conditions mimic the symptoms of environmental allergies, and should be ruled out first. Secondary skin infection, chronic skin changes, the nature of the allergies and the current season all factor into the timing.
A food elimination trial may be recommended before or after the skin test, as food allergy can be a complicating factor or a primary condition by itself. Allergy testing is typically not used to test for food allergies, which makes a food trial even more important for each allergic pet. According to some studies, approximately 30% of pets may have both environmental and food allergies.
Allergy testing is best performed with adequate preparation in order to achieve reliable results. The information it produces is used to design an individualized care plan — skin barrier repair, allergen avoidance and desensitization therapy.
At a glance
- Around 60 locally relevant allergens assessed
- Performed by a board certified dermatologist
- Serum-based testing available where appropriate
- Results shape a written, individualized plan
- Preparation matters — see the washout guide below
Treatment washout periods
Certain treatments interfere with the results of intradermal testing and must be withdrawn beforehand. Our dermatologist will help you keep your pet comfortable while preparing for the test.
| Treatment | Washout before testing |
|---|---|
| Injectable corticosteroids (long-acting) | 90 days |
| Oral corticosteroids (tablets or liquids) | 30 days |
| Corticosteroid skin, ear and eye ointments (topical) | 14 days |
| Antihistamines (including over-the-counter allergy products) | 7 days |
| Tranquilizers and behaviour-modifying treatments | 7 days |
| Oral & topical essential fatty acids including fish oils | 7 days |
| Medicated baths | 5 days |
Your veterinary dermatologist will confirm the exact products and withdrawal times for your pet before testing.
Common allergen classes assessed
More than 50 of the most common allergens specific to our local environment are assessed during intradermal testing. Various combinations can also be tested using serum-based allergy tests.
- House dust mites
- Tree pollen
- Grass pollen
- Weed pollen
- Environmental moulds
- Seasonal and indoor combinations
Other services that may help
Allergy Desensitization Therapy
Allergen Specific Immunotherapy that builds tolerance over time.
Non-Allergic Skin and Ear Problems
Infections, nail conditions, hair loss, tumours and autoimmune disease.
Find out what your pet actually reacts to.
Intradermal allergy testing is done in clinic and reads your pet’s own skin response to a panel of local allergens.
Ready to find out what is triggering the itch?
Book an initial consultation and we will work it out together.