TikTok Doctor Explains Allergy Skin Testing: What You Need to Know

Allergy Skin Testing Explained: A Simple Guide Millions suffer from allergies each year. Understanding allergy testing is crucial for diagnosis and treatment. Dr. Rubin, MD, a board-certified allergist, recently shared a helpful TikTok video explaining the process. In the video, he demonstrates how a small prick test can reveal sensitivities to various substances like pollen, mold, pet dander, and foods. "Essentially, what we do is we take liquid extracts of different substances and place them on your skin," explains Dr. Rubin in his video. "A small scratch introduces a little protein, and if you have an antibody called IgE, it will cause a reaction, a hive." He emphasizes that this reaction shows sensitization, meaning your body has produced antibodies to that substance, but doesn't automatically mean you have a full allergy. A complete diagnosis requires a medical history and consideration of symptoms. The video's clear explanation and Dr. Rubin's expertise make it a valuable resource for understanding allergy skin testing. It highlights the importance of professional interpretation of test results for accurate diagnosis and treatment.