Definition

Noun: A medical diagnostic procedure where a small amount of a substance is introduced into or onto the skin to observe the body's reaction. It is primarily used to determine an individual's sensitivity (e.g., to an allergen) or immunity (e.g., to a specific disease like tuberculosis).

Usage

A "skin test" is performed by a healthcare professional. The result is determined by observing the skin's reaction, such as redness, swelling, or a raised bump, after a set period of time. - It is crucial for diagnosing allergies, tuberculosis infection, and other immune responses. - The term is typically used in medical contexts.

Examples

• Noun:
  • Before prescribing the antibiotic, the doctor ordered a skin test to check for penicillin allergy.
  • A positive skin test for tuberculosis indicates exposure to the bacteria.
  • The allergist performed a series of skin tests to identify what was causing the patient's hives.

Advanced Usage

• "to read a skin test": To interpret the results of a skin test by measuring the size of the reaction.
  • The nurse will read the skin test 48 to 72 hours after it is administered.
• "to administer a skin test": To perform the procedure of applying the test substance.
  • Only trained personnel should administer a skin test.

Variants and Related Words

• Patch test: A type of skin test where allergens are applied to patches which are then placed on the skin.
  • A patch test is often used to diagnose contact dermatitis.
• Intradermal test: A skin test where a small amount of substance is injected into the dermis layer of the skin.
  • The tuberculin skin test is a common intradermal test.
• Prick test (scratch test): A skin test where the skin is lightly pricked or scratched to introduce a tiny amount of allergen.
  • The prick test is a standard method for diagnosing environmental allergies.

Synonyms

• Allergy test (specifically for allergens)
• Hypersensitivity test
• Intradermal reaction test

Related Phrases

• Skin test reaction: The visible response (like a wheal or flare) on the skin.
  • A large skin test reaction suggests a strong sensitivity.
• False-positive skin test: A test result that incorrectly indicates a sensitivity or immunity.
  • Certain infections can cause a false-positive skin test for tuberculosis.

Noun

1. any test to determine immunity or sensitivity to a disease by introducing small amounts on or into the skin