The Sinus Centre provides a comprehensive allergy management system. This includes a diagnostic skin prick test for aero-allergen allergies, in addition to/or a modified RAST test, whereby a blood sample is taken and IgE specific antibodies to the various allergens are measured. Both tests are accurate and which test is used depends on the clinical situation.

Skin Prick Test (SPT)

For Skin Prick Test (SPT), the results are available within twenty minutes of the procedure in the Clinic. Positive skin tests are indicated by a significant weal and flare reaction larger than the control. A report is generated immediately.

Food Allergy Tests

Food allergy tests are also done by using the modified RAST test. Different food panels are available depending on the patient's dietary intake. The abstinence/challenge test is the ultimate diagnostic test, but is time consuming and laborious.

Clinical Interpretation

For clinical interpretation of the results, a thorough clinical history from the patients is absolutely necessary. If diagnostic tests confirm the presence of a specific allergen, avoidance of this allergen remains the mainstay of treatment. However, failure to identify an offending allergen would necessitate a prolonged and safe use of an intranasal steroid nasal spray to reduce inflammation in the target end of organ (the nose) with excellent results. Surgery is also offered for obstructive turbinates, deviated nasal septum or nasal polyposis and is necessary to augment the use of an intranasal steroid spray.