Allergies in children can present in many ways a seemingly harmless rash after a snack, a persistent cough that doesn’t respond to usual treatments, or a child who avoids certain foods without a clear explanation. It’s tempting to classify many of these symptoms up to “just childhood” or “normal sensitivities”, but sometimes what looks like a minor nuisance is a sign of something more significant. At Paediatric Diagnostics, we believe in guiding families through the sometimes-complex world of paediatric allergy testing, offering clarity, practical support and careful interpretation not just a list of positive/negative test results.
Why Allergy Testing Matters
In paediatric medicine, allergy testing plays a critical role in identifying and managing conditions that may significantly impact a child’s health and development. It extends beyond determining a specific allergen and focuses on understanding how allergic sensitisation contributes to clinical symptoms and overall wellbeing. Evidence indicates that persistent eczema, gastro-oesophageal reflux, or feeding difficulties in children may have an underlying allergic component that warrants further investigation.
Allergy testing forms part of a comprehensive, child-centred assessment. This approach considers the type and degree of sensitisation to specific allergens, the immune response involved, and the broader clinical effects on feeding, sleep, dermatological health, respiratory function, and growth. Integrating these findings enables clinicians to develop targeted management plans that improve quality of life for both the child and their family.
Paediatric allergy testing is not a simple positive or negative result. It is a structured diagnostic process designed to determine whether a child exhibits an immediate hypersensitivity reaction to a food or environmental allergen. This involves obtaining a detailed medical and family history, correlating clinical symptoms with potential exposures, and interpreting test results within the broader clinical context to reach an accurate diagnosis and guide evidence-based care.
The testing journey at Paediatric Diagnostics
When a child is referred to us for allergy assessment and testing, our approach is comprehensive and clinically structured to ensure an accurate diagnosis and a tailored management plan.
Detailed clinical history
The process begins with an in-depth consultation covering not only the child’s immediate symptoms but also diet, environmental factors, family history of allergy or asthma, feeding patterns, growth, sleep, and any possible exposures such as pets, dust, or pollen. Exploring these details helps identify potential triggers for example, a rash following oats or a nighttime cough when a pet is nearby and guides the selection of appropriate tests.
Physical examination and baseline assessment
A targeted examination follows, focusing on the skin (eczema, urticaria, rashes), respiratory system (wheeze, recurrent cough), gastrointestinal symptoms (vomiting, reflux, feeding difficulties), and growth parameters. This provides a broader understanding of how allergic disease may be affecting the child beyond immediate reactions.
Selection of appropriate investigations
Based on the history and clinical presentation, one or more of the following diagnostic tests may be performed:
• Skin prick test (SPT): The most widely used method for detecting sensitisation. Small quantities of allergen extract are introduced into the skin, typically on the forearm or back. A raised wheal appearing within approximately 15 minutes indicates sensitisation.
• Specific IgE blood test: Performed when skin testing is not suitable, such as in cases of extensive eczema or when additional data is required. It measures allergen-specific IgE antibodies in the blood.
• Patch testing: Used when a delayed hypersensitivity reaction is suspected, for example in chronic contact dermatitis. Allergen patches are applied and assessed after 48–72 hours.
• Oral food challenge: Considered the diagnostic gold standard. This is performed under medical supervision when results from other tests are inconclusive or when assessing whether a child has developed tolerance to a previously diagnosed food allergy.
Interpretation and management discussion
Interpreting allergy tests requires clinical correlation. Rather than reporting results as simply positive or negative, we evaluate the degree of sensitisation, the relevance of the allergen to the child’s symptoms, and the potential impact on daily life. For example, a mild sensitisation to dust mites without clinical symptoms may only warrant routine monitoring rather than environmental restrictions.
Development of a personalised care plan
Following assessment, a tailored care plan is developed. This may include allergen avoidance strategies (where appropriate), nutritional and feeding guidance (particularly for infants and young children), medication plans (such as antihistamines, inhalers, or adrenaline auto-injectors), and education for parents and caregivers on managing reactions. The focus is on realistic and measurable outcomes such as improved sleep, reduced eczema flare-ups, better feeding tolerance, and fewer respiratory symptoms rather than solely on allergen avoidance.
Ongoing follow-up and review
Paediatric allergy is dynamic, with sensitivities and clinical presentations evolving over time. Regular follow-up and, when indicated, repeat testing allow for adjustments in management and support continuity of care. Our aim is to provide ongoing, evidence-based support rather than a single assessment episode.
When to consider referral for allergy testing
A referral for allergy testing should be considered if your child presents with any of the following:
- Recurrent rashes, hives or eczema that are not well controlled with standard treatment
- Persistent or unexplained vomiting, reflux or feeding refusal, as food allergy may contribute to gastrointestinal symptoms
- Recurrent or persistent cough, wheeze or breathing difficulty, particularly when there is a suspected trigger
- A history of reaction to a food, airborne allergen or medication
At Paediatric Diagnostics, we provide specialist assessments for children from infancy through adolescence, recognising how their clinical needs evolve with age. Our team ensures a supportive and calm environment where both parents and children are listened to and cared for with sensitivity.
What to expect at our private clinic
Our clinic offers family-centred appointments, with extended initial consultations to allow thorough history taking. Our staff are trained to help children feel at ease, and we encourage parents to ask questions at every stage. We provide a full range of allergy testing options, either on-site or through trusted referral partners. Prior to testing, we explain the process clearly and offer guidance on preparation, including any necessary adjustments to medication. Results are always reviewed in a dedicated follow-up appointment, during which we discuss findings and agree on a management plan.
Final thoughts
Allergy testing in children is not simply about identifying triggers but about improving quality of life. Whether it allows a child to sleep better by identifying an underlying food sensitivity or brings reassurance by ruling out allergy, our focus is on meaningful and practical outcomes. At Paediatric Diagnostics, we are committed to supporting families in understanding their child’s symptoms and moving forward with clarity and confidence. If you suspect allergies may be affecting your child’s health, or if previous advice has been unclear, our team is ready to help.
Ready to take the next step? Contact us to arrange a specialist paediatric allergy consultation and testing. Together, we’ll identify what matters for your child and help them thrive.