How Reliable Is Peanut Allergy Testing?
Peanut Allergy Testing is generally reliable, but its accuracy depends on the type of test used and how the results are interpreted. Skin prick tests and blood IgE tests are commonly used for initial screening and can effectively detect peanut sensitization. However, they may occasionally produce false positives, as sensitization does not always equate to a clinical allergy. Some individuals may test positive yet tolerate peanuts without any symptoms, which can lead to unnecessary dietary restrictions.
The most reliable test for confirming a peanut allergy is the oral food challenge (OFC). This supervised test involves controlled exposure to peanuts and directly assesses whether the body reacts, making it highly accurate for confirming or ruling out allergies. Due to the potential for severe reactions, OFC must be conducted in a medical setting with emergency care available. When combined with a thorough medical history, peanut allergy testing can be a valuable tool for assessing true allergic risks and guiding management strategies.
