At Kelsey-Seybold Clinic, our Allergy specialists are skilled in a number of testing procedures. In addition, our doctors have access to a state-of-the-art laboratory and radiological services.

Allergy skin testing | Pulmonary function testing (Spirometry)
Allergy immunotherapy (allergy shots) | Patch testing

Rapid, simple and safe, skin tests can be very helpful in identifying the specific cause of allergies.

During an allergy skin test, your skin is exposed to a variety of allergy-causing substances, or allergens, and is observed for signs of an allergic reaction. Also called a scratch test, this helps identify the allergens which contribute to your particular symptoms.

To conduct the test, a small amount of each allergen is placed on the skin with a specialized "pick." If the skin reddens or swells, the test is considered positive and an allergy to that substance is considered probable.

In some extremely allergic patients who have especially severe symptoms or have underlying skin disorders, an alternative to skin testing is available. For these patients, your doctor may use special blood tests to diagnose the allergy.

Pulmonary function tests (PFTs) measure how well the lungs take in and release air. PFTs are performed to diagnose certain types of lung disease such as asthma, bronchitis, and emphysema.

A Spirometry test, a type of Pulmonary test, can evaluate a broad range of lung diseases. The patient breathes into a device, called a spirometer, which records the amount and rate of air movement over a period of time.

Cooperation while performing the test is crucial in order to get accurate results. The nurse or technician assisting with the test instructs the patient on the proper technique.

Allergy immunotherapy (IT) consists of a long-term program of injections designed to improve immune system tolerance to specific allergens. The extract is made up of concentrates of the actual allergens to which the patient is sensitive.

Patients begin by getting an allergy shot once a week. Your allergist will gradually increase the concentration of allergen extract in your injections until a maintenance dose is reached.

The success rate varies from person to person, so depending on your response to therapy, your allergist may decide to vary the frequency of your shots. Immunotherapy may continue for three to five years, at which time your allergist will help you decide if it is necessary to continue the treatment.

For best results, continue to avoid exposure to your allergens as much as possible.

Patch testing is a way of identifying whether a substance that comes in contact with the skin is causing inflammation (also called dermatitis) of the skin.

Your allergist will suggest which allergens you should be tested for. Sometimes this may include allergens specific to a job site, or to frequently used cosmetics or household products. For the test, your allergist will apply various test substances to the skin under adhesive tape that is left in place for 48 hours.

The skin is then examined for a response to the substances two days later. If an allergen is identified, avoiding it should help cure your dermatitis.

Kelsey-Seybold's specialists in Allergy and Immunology treat both children and adults. These physicians have had additional training in Allergy and Immunology following medical residency. To schedule an appointment with one of our Allergy specialists, call 713-442-DOCS (3627).

Kelsey-Seybold Clinic has more than 320 doctors in more than 40 specialties and sub-specialties, including Orthopedics, Cardiology, Pulmonary Medicine, Rheumatology, Ophthalmology and Cancer Care.

For personalized assistance in selecting a doctor, call our Customer Contact Center at 713-442-0427. With 18 locations around Houston, you'll find a Kelsey-Seybold family doctor or specialist right in your neighborhood.