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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Child With Allergy Test Positive, Keeping Epipen On Hands. Inhalants Results 22 Wheal And 30 Flare. What Does This Number Represent?

My 7 yr old had to have allergy testing done the other day and has tested positive to EVERYTHING. We now have to keep an epi pen on hand as well as an inhaler . I ve done a lot of reading and see that the size of the reaction to the prick test doesn t determine the severity of the allergy. So...what is the scale they base it on? Ex: her numbers for Ragweed Mix were: 14 (wheal) and 35 (flare). Under the category Inhalants her results were 22 (wheal) and 30 (flare). what do those numbers mean exactly? I know they represent measurements but if the size of the reaction doesn t determine the degree of severity then what s the point?
Mon, 11 Mar 2013
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Pediatrician,  's  Response
Hi,

Thank you for your query.

You have rightly mentioned that the size of reaction doesn't determine the severity of the allergy. They give an idea of the reaction and that one has to be cautious. Apart from this the load of the allergen also determines the reaction of the body.

I hope I have answered your query to your satisfaction.

Wishing your child all the best.

Regards,

RKK
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Child With Allergy Test Positive, Keeping Epipen On Hands. Inhalants Results 22 Wheal And 30 Flare. What Does This Number Represent?

Hi, Thank you for your query. You have rightly mentioned that the size of reaction doesn t determine the severity of the allergy. They give an idea of the reaction and that one has to be cautious. Apart from this the load of the allergen also determines the reaction of the body. I hope I have answered your query to your satisfaction. Wishing your child all the best. Regards, RKK