Delayed reaction allergies

[Lara J C]

I have been advised privately to get allergy tested for immediate and delayed food allergies, as I get itchy after eating certain foods. This may be linked to my chronic migraine. Does the NHS test for delayed as well as immediate food allergies? From what I read, it sounds unlikely, and I may be better off getting tested privately.

[Dr Sian Ludman]

Hi Lara

Allergy testing is the same if it is done privately or on the NHS:

Blood (specific IgE or components) or skin prick tests for immediate reactions
Trial removal and inclusion for delayed reactions
Patch testing for contact reactions

So any NHS allergy clinic would offer appropriate testing. I am not sure what other testing you have heard about for delayed reactions - vega testing, kinesiology etc. are not recommended by the department of health at all.

Hope that helps?

[Dr Anton Alexandroff]

Dear Lara,

I agree that blood test (igE) and immediate reaction allergy test (prick test) are available on NHS and these are typically used to identify suspected food reaction(s). Delayed reaction testing (patch testing) is also available on NHS but is not usually used to identify food allergy, instead it is used to identify allergic contact dermatitis (eczema) to contact allergens (e.g. fragrances or preservatives e.g. in household products and so on).

I hope this is helpful.
With best wishes,

Dr Anton Alexandroff FRCP(UK) PhD CCT(Derm) FRSM FAAD
Consultant Dermatologist and Honorary Senior Lecturer
British Skin Foundation Spokesperson
Harley Street Dermatology Offices, Nuffield Health, Spire and BMI Hospitals, London, Cambridge, Bedford and Leicester

http://www.alexandroff.org.uk