Allergy testing can be performed on children of any age, even infants, when there’s a suspicion of allergies. However, the approach and type of test may vary depending on the child’s age and symptoms.
For infants and very young children, blood tests (specific IgE tests) are often preferred as they’re less invasive and don’t require the child to stop taking antihistamines.
Skin prick tests, which involve placing a small amount of allergen on the skin and pricking the surface, can typically be done on children of any age. However, they’re more commonly performed on children over 6 months old.
Food challenges, where small amounts of a suspected allergen are given under medical supervision, can be conducted at any age but are often done when a child is old enough to communicate their symptoms clearly.
It’s important to note that allergy testing should always be done under the guidance of a pediatric allergist. They can determine the most appropriate type of test based on the child’s age, symptoms, and medical history.
Early testing can be crucial for managing severe allergies, especially food allergies, to prevent dangerous reactions and guide treatment plans.
