'Prick Test' allergy testing apparatus, Brentford, England, 1980-1981
Skin testing, or prick testing, is a quick, reliable and economical way of diagnosing allergies. Small amounts of substances which a patient may be allergic to are put onto separate places on the skin’s surface, or ‘pricked’ into it. Treated areas may show a reaction, normally redness or inflammation. The substance responsible for the allergy is then determined. This ‘Prick Test’ allergy testing apparatus was made by Bencard Limited. It contains 22 phials of solution, disposable lancets and reaction gauges for measuring and comparing the size of the reactions on the skin. Antihistamine drugs counter the effects of an allergic reaction. The first were produced in 1937. Skin testing kits have been marketed since 1945.
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A state in which the body becomes hypersensitive to specific substances. When these substances come in contact with the body they provoke particular reactions. Common indications of allergy may include sneezing, itching, and skin rashes.
Glossary: allergy testing apparatus