When do they do the allergy skin prick test on your forearm?

Question

I often hear from people I know and meet about their allergy prick test expirience. All of them have told me that they had the allergy prick test done on their back. However, when I look up photos of allergy prick test on the internet most of the photos show the test is often done on the right forearm and occaisionally the left forearm. When exactly do they do the allergy prick test on the forearm instead of the back?

Answer 1

the forarms were where they originally had them, but recently they have started on the back (which is less painful)...just for cosmetic reasons..you wouldn't want all those bumps in plain sight would you? btw there is no real difference btwn the 2...there is no steping stone thing going on here.

Answer 2

I have never seen this done on the forearm.
As a nurse and as an allergy patient, I would know.
Allergy testing is done on the back of the upper arm.
It is done in a specific pattern to determine a persons allergic reaction to substances.

Answer 3

I had allergy testing done 5-6 yrs ago. It was done on my back. It is more accurate. Because the hives merged into each other, I also had to get blood drawn for more of an accurate and confirmation of allergies. If you suspect allergic reaction to the environment/food etc consult your PCP.

Answer 4

My allergy test was done on my forearm and upper arm. Hurt like crazy, and it turned out I'm not allergic to anything.

Answer 5

The back gives them a more accurate answer but you can choose the forearm if you want. Its up the the person and doctor

Answer 6

the pinprick is an indicator to allergic reaction,if you are allergic to a substance , the skin around the spot will go red as your antibodies attack the spot may also become itchy
the area tested is based on preference of the tester.

Answer 7

now most testing of adults is done on the arm, they usually do the testing on the back for a child, so the child can't reach and scratch.

Answer 8

it's not when it's done but who does it, My wife has had the tests done many time and only once on the back when she asked the nurse why? she replied that's ho the doctor like it done, so we figured, it really the same,either way

Answer 9

could be choice. I worked =for an alergist and we always did them on the back. Larger area and no sleeves to both the places.

Answer 10

You can tell them what you want, back or arm. If you don't tell them your preference, they will choose which one is more convenient for them.

TX Mom