Allergy Tests in London – Consultant Allergist Review

At London Allergy and Immunology Centre, we provide expert-led allergy testing in London. We also offer remote allergy testing across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Our consultant allergists select, interpret, and review every test. This approach supports accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.

Allergy testing services in London

Allergy Testing Across the UK

Allergy testing in the UK helps doctors identify allergy sensitisation. However, not all symptoms that look like allergy have an allergic cause. For example, urticaria and angioedema (rashes and swelling) may arise from allergic or non-allergic conditions.

Because of this, testing is not always required. In many cases, an experienced allergy consultant can reach a diagnosis through a detailed medical history. A food and symptom diary often adds further useful information. As a result, we only recommend tests when they provide clear clinical value.

Consultant-Led Allergy Assessment

During your visit to our allergy testing clinic, our consultants will:

– Review your medical and allergy history
– Advise which tests suit your symptoms
– Interpret results in clinical context
– Recommend treatment and follow-up

For remote allergy testing, including ALEX molecular testing, we collect your history using a detailed online questionnaire. Importantly, a consultant review is always included in the test price.

In addition, we arrange follow-up appointments after remote testing. We also write to your GP with the results. This process supports continuity of care and maintains links with NHS primary care services.

Types of Allergy Tests We Offer

Specific IgE Blood Tests (RAST / sIgE)

Specific IgE blood tests measure sensitisation to individual allergens. These include milk, wheat, peanuts, tree nuts, grass pollen, moulds, animal dander, and medicines such as penicillin. We offer more than 400 individual allergen tests. Patients can complete testing in clinic or via remote sampling.

Molecular Allergy Testing (ALEX and Component-Resolved Diagnostics)

Molecular allergy testing detects IgE antibodies to individual allergen components rather than whole extracts. Therefore, it provides more detailed information about allergy risk.

This testing helps assess:

– Cross-reactivity
– Risk of severe reactions
– Pollen–food syndrome
– Latex and occupational allergy

Although this test costs slightly more than standard options, it often changes clinical management because of its precision.

Skin Prick Allergy Testing

We perform skin prick testing during consultations only. Results are available within 15 minutes. When needed, we use prick-to-prick testing. This method allows assessment of fresh foods or plants that patients bring with them.

Patch Testing (Epicutaneous Testing)

Patch testing identifies delayed allergic reactions. These include allergic contact dermatitis caused by metals, cosmetics, fragrances, and chemicals. Testing takes place on Tuesday and Wednesday. We read results at 48, 72, and 96 hours.

Food and Symptom Diary with Elimination Diet

For delayed reactions linked to eczema, atopic dermatitis, or chronic skin conditions, we use a supervised elimination and reintroduction diet. Our structured food–symptom diary supports accurate interpretation. A consultant allergist reviews all findings.

Intradermal Testing

Intradermal tests form part of selected drug allergy investigations and specialist pathways. These tests usually follow skin prick testing. They involve a controlled higher allergen dose using sterile solutions.

Provocation and Challenge Tests

We provide specialist provocation testing, including:

– Ocular conjunctival provocation
– Nasal provocation testing
– Oral food challenges
– Drug allergy challenge testing

All challenge tests take place in hospital settings. Trained staff supervise every procedure, and full resuscitation equipment is available. These tests must never be performed at home.

Occupational and Component Allergy Testing

We offer advanced testing for occupational allergens, enzymes, latex components, food allergens, and carbohydrate determinants (CCD). This includes Alpha-Gal syndrome and omega-5 gliadin. Component-resolved diagnostics help distinguish true allergy from cross-reactivity. As a result, they support safer and more targeted management.

Start Your Allergy Testing Journey

If you wish to arrange allergy testing before seeing a consultant, you can start remotely. This option suits patients living outside London or abroad. Simply complete our ALEX request. A consultant allergist will then review your results and advise on next steps.