What Is an Allergy Test?

An allergy test is a diagnostic procedure used to identify specific substances, known as allergens, that may trigger allergic reactions in the body.

These tests assess how the immune system responds to particular allergens by evaluating either skin or blood responses.

Allergy testing is commonly used to diagnose conditions such as allergic rhinitis (hay fever), eczema, asthma, and food allergies.

Common Allergies in Singapore

Allergies are increasingly prevalent in Singapore due to its humid climate, urban setting, and changing diets. Among the most common are:

Other allergens include pet dander, mould spores, pollen from tropical plants, and food additives like MSG.

Young man sneezing at home due to nasal allergies, which affect one in three people in Singapore.

Common Allergy Symptoms

Allergy symptoms can vary widely depending on the allergen involved and the part of the body affected. Common symptoms include:

  • Sneezing, nasal congestion, or itchy eyes
  • Skin rashes, eczema, or hives
  • Abdominal pain, diarrhoea, or bloating after eating certain foods
  • Wheezing, coughing, or shortness of breath
  • Reactions to insect stings or certain medications

An allergy test may be helpful if you experience persistent or unexplained symptoms that affect your daily life or if over-the-counter antihistamines are ineffective or provide only temporary relief.

Types of Allergy Tests

Several types of allergy tests are available in Singapore, each suited to different clinical indications and individual health profiles. Common options include:

Skin Prick Test

A skin prick test involves a small amount of suspected allergen being introduced into the surface of the skin, usually on the forearm or back. If an allergy is present, a raised bump (wheal) typically appears within 15 to 20 minutes.

Blood Test (IgE Test)

This test measures the level of allergen-specific immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies in the blood. It is commonly used when skin testing is not suitable, such as in individuals with certain skin conditions or those taking medications that may interfere with skin reactions.

Blood sample labelled Allergy Profile Test placed on a form listing common food allergens in Singapore.

Patch Test

This test is used to detect delayed allergic reactions, particularly in contact dermatitis. Small quantities of allergens are applied to adhesive patches, which are placed on the skin, typically on the back, for 48 hours. The skin is then assessed over the following days for any reaction.

What Can You Expect During and After the Test?

Allergy tests are usually fast and well tolerated, whether performed on the skin or through a blood sample.

  • Skin prick tests may cause mild discomfort, such as a pricking sensation or itchiness. Minor skin reactions usually subside within a few hours. Delayed reactions may occur with patch tests.
  • Blood tests involve drawing a small blood sample, with minimal discomfort. Mild bruising, redness, or soreness at the puncture site may occur but typically resolve quickly.

Allergy Test Singapore Price/Cost

At HealthScreening.sg, allergy testing is available through both skin prick tests and blood tests. Options include testing for individual allergens as well as comprehensive bundled panels.

Home-based blood testing services are also available for added convenience.

Our prices are as follows:

Test Test Type Prices*
Consultation From $49.05
Home Blood Test Service Additional $54.50
Allergen Profile Test
77 Allergens Panel Comprehensive Blood Test
Show Full Allergen List
Inhalant Allergens:
Alder, Alternaria alternata, Aspergillus fumigatus, Bermuda grass, Birch, Cladosporium herbarum, Common ragweed, Cultivated rye, Cypress, Dermatophagoides farinae, Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus, English plantain, Hazel, House dust, Mugwort, Oak, Orchard grass, Penicillium notatum, Sweet vernal grass, Taraxacum vulgare (Dandelion), Timothy grass

Animal Allergens:
Cat, Chicken feathers, Dog, Horse

Food Allergens (Non-Seafood):
Almond, Apple, Apricot, Barley flour, Beef, Carrot, Celery, Chicken, Chocolate, Corn, Gluten, Kiwi, Lamb meat, Lemon, Orange, Oat flour, Peanut, Pineapple, Pork (cooked), Potato, Rice, Rye flour, Strawberry, Tomato, Wheat flour

Seafood Allergens:
Codfish, Crab, Sardine (Pilchard), Shrimp/Prawn, Tuna

Milk, Egg & Dairy Allergens:
Alpha-lactalbumin (Milk), Beta-lactoglobulin (Milk), Bovine serum albumin, Cow’s milk, Egg white, Egg yolk, Goat’s milk, nBos d 8 Casein (Cow’s milk)

Legumes, Nuts & Seeds Allergens:
Hazelnut, Peanut, Sesame, Soybean

Venom & Insect Allergens:
Aedes communis (Mosquito spp.), Cockroach (American), Cockroach (German), Common wasp (Yellow jacket) venom, Fire ant, Honey bee venom

Other Allergens:
Baker’s yeast, Brewer’s yeast, Candida albicans, Latex
Blood $800
59 Allergens Panel Comprehensive Blood Test
Show Full Allergen List
Inhalant Allergens:
Alternaria alternata, American Cockroach, Aspergillus fumigatus, Bermuda grass, Cladosporium herbarum, Dermatophagoides farinae, Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus, German Cockroach, Johnsen grass, Timothy grass

Animal Allergens:
Cat, Dog, Hamster

Food Allergens (Non-Seafood):
Almond, Apple, Avocado, Banana, Beef, Celery, Chicken, Coconut, Garlic, Gluten, Kiwi, Maize flour, Onion, Peach, Pork, Rice, Tomato, Wheat flour, Baker’s yeast

Seafood Allergens:
Blue Crab, Codfish, Crab, Oyster, Salmon, Shrimp (Pacific), Squid, Tuna

Milk, Egg & Dairy Allergens:
Cow’s milk, Goat’s milk, Egg white, Egg yolk, nBos d 4 Alpha-lactalbumin, nBos d 5 Beta-lactoglobulin, nBos d 8 Casein, nGal d 1 Ovomucoid, nGal d 2 Ovalbumin

Legumes, Nuts & Seeds Allergens:
Cashew nut, Hazelnut, Mustard Seed, Pea, Peanut, rAra h 2 (Peanut), rAra h 9 (Peanut), Sesame, Soybean

Other Allergens:
Latex
Blood $739.02
Skin Allergy Package (12 Allergens)
Inhalant Allergens:
Alternaria alternata, Aspergillus fumigatus, Bermuda grass, Blomia tropicalis, Dermatophagoides farinae, Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus, German Cockroach, Timothy grass

Animal Allergens:
Cat dander, Dog dander

Milk, Egg & Dairy Allergens:
Cow’s milk, Whole egg
Skin Prick $490.50
Inhalant Panel 1 - Dust / Mites / Epidermals / Pollens (15 Allergens)
Alternaria Alternata, Aspergillus Fumigatus, Bahia Grass, Bermuda Grass, Blomia Tropicalis, Cat Dander, Cockroach German, Common Ragweed, Curvularia Lunata, D. Farinae, D. Pteronyssinus, Dog Dander, Dust - Greer, Johnson Grass, Timothy Grass
Blood $648.55
Inhalant Panel 2 - Molds & Yeasts (5 Allergens)
Alternaria Alternata, Aspergillus Fumigatus, Candida Albicans, Cladosporium Herbarum, Penicillium Notatum
Blood $289.94
Eczema Panel (11 Allergens)
Cat Dander, Chicken, D. Pteronyssinus, Dog Dander, Egg White, Fish (Cod), Hazel Nut, Cow’s Milk, Peanut, Shrimp, Soya Bean
Blood $552.63
Paediatric / Common Allergy Panel (15 Allergens)
Anchovies (Ikan Bilis), Chicken, Cocoa, Corn, Egg White, Fish (Cod), Gluten, Rice, Cow’s Milk, Peanut, Sesame Seed, Shrimp, Soya Bean, Wheat, Yeast
Blood $660.54
Seafood Food Panel (8 Allergens)
Anchovies (Ikan bilis), Clam, Crab, Fish (Cod), Salmon, Shrimp, Squid, Tuna
Blood $416.38
Seafood Food Panel - Shellfish (8 Allergens)
Blue Mussel, Clam, Crab, Lobster, Oyster, Scallop, Shrimp, Squid
Blood $432.73
Nuts Food Panel (8 Allergens)
Almond, Brazil Nut, Hazel Nut, Macadamia Nut, Peanut, Pine Nut, Pistachio, Walnut
Blood $468.70
Asthma Panel (11 Allergens)
Egg White, Cow’s Milk, Wheat, Peanut, Chicken, Soya Bean, Cat Dander, Dog Dander, D. Pteronyssinus, D. Farinae, Blomia Tropicalis
Blood $480.69
Gastro Panel (6 Allergens)
Egg White, Cow’s Milk, Wheat, Peanut, Chicken, Soya Bean
Blood $360.79
Single Allergen – House Dust and Mites
Blomia Tropicalis (House Dust Mite) Blood $68.67
Blomia Tropicalis (House Dust Mite) Skin Prick $54.50
Blomia Tropicalis (House Dust Mite) Skin Prick $54.50
Dermatophagoides Farinae (American House Dust Mite) Blood $68.67
Dermatophagoides Farinae (American House Dust Mite) Skin Prick $54.50
Dermatophagoides Pteronyssinus (European House Dust Mite) Blood $68.67
Dermatophagoides Pteronyssinus (European House Dust Mite) Skin Prick $54.50
Greer Labs House Dust Blood $95.92
Hollister-Stier Labs House Dust Blood $95.92
Single Allergen – Epidermals
Cat Dander Blood $68.67
Cat Dander Skin Prick $54.50
Dog Dander Blood $68.67
Dog Dander Skin Prick $54.50
Guinea Pig Epithelium Blood $63.22
Hamster Epithelium Blood $89.38
Mouse Epithelium Blood $95.92
Rabbit Epithelium Blood $95.92
Rat Epithelium Blood $89.81
Single Allergen – Moulds
Alternaria Alternata (Fungus) Blood $68.67
Alternaria Alternata (Fungus) Skin Prick $54.50
Aspergillus Fumigatus (Fungus) Blood $68.67
Aspergillus Fumigatus (Fungus) Skin Prick $54.50
Candida Albicans Blood $68.67
Cladosporium Herbarum Blood $68.67
Curvularia Lunata Blood $63.22
Penicillium Notatum Blood $68.67
Single Allergen – Cereals
Barley Blood $68.67
Buckwheat Blood $68.67
Gluten Blood $95.92
Oat Blood $68.67
Rice Blood $68.67
Wheat Blood $68.67
Single Allergen – Eggs
Egg White Blood $95.92
Egg Yolk Blood $68.67
Whole Egg Blood $68.67
Whole Egg Skin Prick $54.50
Single Allergen – Fish
Anchovies (Ikan Bilis) Blood $95.92
Fish (Cod) Blood $68.67
Salmon Blood $68.67
Tuna Blood $68.67
Single Allergen – Fruits
Apple Blood $63.22
Banana Blood $68.67
Grape Blood $89.38
Kiwi Blood $68.67
Mango Blood $68.67
Melon Blood $63.22
Orange Blood $67.58
Papaya Blood $63.22
Peach Blood $63.22
Strawberry Blood $68.67
Watermelon Blood $63.22
Single Allergen – Meats
Beef Blood $68.67
Chicken Blood $68.67
Mutton Blood $68.67
Pork Blood $68.67
Single Allergen – Milk
Cow’s Milk Blood $68.67
Cow’s Milk Skin Prick $54.50
Single Allergen – Miscellaneous
Cacao Blood $68.67
Coffee Blood $95.92
Malt Blood $68.67
Mushroom Blood $68.67
Tea Blood $95.92
Yeast Blood $68.67
Single Allergen – Seeds and Legumes
Coconut Blood $67.58
Corn Blood $68.67
Pea Blood $63.22
Peanut Blood $68.67
Sesame Seed Blood $68.67
Soya Bean Blood $68.67
Single Allergen – Shellfish
Blue Mussel Blood $68.67
Clam Blood $68.67
Crab Blood $68.67
Lobster Blood $95.92
Oyster Blood $95.92
Scallop Blood $95.92
Shrimp Blood $68.67
Squid Blood $68.67
Single Allergen – Spices
Black Pepper Blood $68.67
Chili Pepper Blood $68.67
Ginger Blood $67.58
Mustard Blood $89.38
Single Allergen – Tree Nuts
Almond Blood $68.67
Brazil Nut Blood $68.67
Cashew Nut Blood $95.92
Hazel Nut Blood $68.67
Macadamia Nut Blood $95.92
Pine Nut Blood $67.58
Pistachio Blood $95.92
Walnut Blood $68.67
Single Allergen – Vegetables
Carrot Blood $67.58
Celery Blood $67.58
Garlic Blood $67.58
Onion Blood $67.58
Potato Blood $68.67
Tomato Blood $68.67
Single Allergen – Insects
American Cockroach Blood $95.92
German Cockroach Blood $68.67
German Cockroach Skin Prick $54.50
Single Allergen – Venoms
Common Wasp Blood $89.38
Fire Ant Blood $89.38
Honey Bee Blood $89.38
White-faced Hornet Blood $89.38
Single Allergen – Pollen
Acacia Blood $62.89
Bahia Grass Blood $68.67
Bermuda Grass Blood $68.67
Bermuda Grass Skin Prick $54.50
Common Ragweed Blood $67.58
Japanese Cedar Blood $62.89
Johnson Grass Blood $67.58
Melaleuca Blood $62.89
Mugwort Blood $62.89
Timothy Grass Blood $67.58
Timothy Grass Skin Prick $54.50
White Pine Blood $62.89
Single Allergen – Occupational
Latex Blood $95.92
IgG Food Allergy Testing
22-Food Panel Test Blood $218
44-Food Panel Test Blood $327
90-Food Panel Test Blood $654
90-Food (Vegetarian) Panel Test Blood $654
180-Food Panel Test Blood $1090
270-Food Panel Test Blood $1635

*Prices are NETT and inclusive of GST.

For a more comprehensive assessment of your health, you may also wish to consider our health screening packages. These services are available at home, on-site, or at hotels for travellers who require convenient screening options.

Where to Go for Allergy Testing?

ATA Medical is conveniently located at two different locations:

ATA Medical Orchard Clinic with Health Screening Nurses and Staff.
Orchard Clinic
ATA Medical Tanjong Pagar Clinic with Health Screening Nurses and Staff
Tanjong Pagar Clinic
Patient having a health screening review with Dr Jana Lim of ATA Medical.
Post-screening consult with Dr Jana Lim

How Do I Book an Allergy Test Appointment?

Book Allergy Test Now
Book or Enquire Through WhatsApp At 88933757
Ask Through Email At hello@healthscreening.sg

What You Need to Bring

  1. Identification Card/Documentations and Memo/Referral Letter (if any).
  2. For Payment: Cash, NETS, American Express, MasterCard, Visa, Union Pay, Grab Pay or PayNow.
  3. No fasting is required.

How Long Does Allergy Testing Take?

On average, most of our patients finish their blood tests within 30 to 60 minutes during off-peak hours. You may contact us to enquire about the best appointment times with minimal waiting.

Test results are typically ready within 1 to 2 weeks. Your report will be sent via email, and our doctor will contact you to review the findings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does allergy testing hurt? / Is an allergy test painful?

Allergy testing is generally well tolerated and causes minimal discomfort. Skin prick tests may produce a mild stinging or itching sensation, while blood tests involve a quick needle prick similar to any standard blood draw. Reactions are usually minor and temporary.

How much is an allergy test in Singapore?

The cost of allergy tests in Singapore varies depending on the test type and number of allergens. Skin prick tests at healthscreening.sg typically start from around $54.50 per allergen, while comprehensive blood panels can range from $289 to over $800. Home-based testing may involve additional fees. All prices are NETT and inclusive of GST.

Can a GP do an allergy test?

Yes, general practitioners (GPs) in Singapore can assess allergy symptoms and recommend suitable tests, including skin prick and blood IgE tests. At healthscreening.sg, options range from individual allergens starting at $54.50 to comprehensive blood panels from $289, covering common triggers such as dust mites, food allergens, eczema-associated substances, and more.

How do I get tested to see what I'm allergic to?

To get tested for allergies, it is best to consult a doctor who can assess your symptoms and recommend a suitable test, such as a skin prick or blood IgE test. At healthscreening.sg, individual allergen tests start from $54.50 and comprehensive blood panels from $289. All prices are NETT and inclusive of GST.

Are allergy tests worth it?

Allergy tests can be valuable if you experience recurring or unexplained symptoms that affect your daily life and need clarity on potential triggers. Accurate identification of allergens can guide effective management and help reduce unnecessary avoidance or exposure. It is advisable to consult a doctor to assess whether testing is clinically appropriate for your condition.

How much does a specific allergy test cost?

The cost of an individual allergy test in Singapore depends on the type of test and the allergen assessed. At Healthscreening.sg, skin prick tests typically start from $54.50 per allergen, and blood tests from $68.67. Comprehensive panels are priced higher, depending on the number of allergens included. All prices are NETT and inclusive of GST. Contact us to learn more about specific tests suited to your needs.

How common are allergies in Singapore?

Allergies are increasingly common in Singapore, affecting both children and adults. House dust mite allergy is the most prevalent, contributing to up to 80 percent of allergic symptoms and affecting 85 percent of asthma patients. Allergic rhinitis affects around 24 percent of the population, while food allergies impact approximately 5 percent of children. These trends are linked to Singapore’s humid climate, urban lifestyle, and dietary patterns.

What are 7 allergy symptoms?

Seven common allergy symptoms include sneezing, nasal congestion, itchy or watery eyes, skin rashes or hives, coughing, wheezing, and digestive issues such as bloating or diarrhoea. The specific symptoms vary depending on the type of allergen and the area of the body affected. It is advisable to consult a doctor if you experience recurring or unexplained symptoms suggestive of an allergy.

How common is peanut allergy?

Peanut allergy is one of the most common food allergies worldwide, particularly among children. In Singapore, while exact figures vary, peanuts are a frequently identified allergen in both individual and panel-based allergy testing. Peanut allergy may persist into adulthood and can range from mild symptoms to severe reactions such as anaphylaxis. It is advisable to consult a doctor if you suspect a peanut allergy or experience symptoms after peanut consumption.

Can a pharmacist test for allergies?

Pharmacists in Singapore do not conduct clinical allergy tests but can advise on over-the-counter allergy medications and symptom management. Confirming an allergy typically requires diagnostic testing, such as a skin prick or blood IgE test, which must be performed by a medical professional. At Healthscreening.sg, both individual allergen tests and comprehensive panels are available to help identify a wide range of allergic triggers. Contact us for more information.

What is allergy in Chinese?

The term “allergy” in Chinese is commonly translated as “过敏” (guò mǐn), which refers to an abnormal immune reaction to a typically harmless substance. This term is widely used in both medical and everyday contexts to describe allergic responses such as skin rashes, sneezing, or food-related symptoms.

What are the top 10 allergies?

The top 10 allergies commonly identified in clinical settings include house dust mites, pollen, mould spores, pet dander, peanuts, eggs, milk, shellfish, soy, and wheat. Prevalence may vary based on age, environment, and genetics. In Singapore, house dust mites and food allergens such as shellfish and peanuts are among the most frequently reported triggers.

What is the most accurate allergy test?

There is no single allergy test that is considered the most accurate in all situations, as each serves a different clinical purpose. Skin prick tests are widely regarded as reliable for detecting immediate-type allergies, while blood IgE tests are useful when skin testing is unsuitable. Patch tests are used for delayed skin reactions. It is advisable to consult a doctor to determine the most appropriate test based on your symptoms and medical history.

How do I know what food I am allergic to?

To identify a food allergy, a doctor may recommend a blood IgE test, skin prick test, or an elimination diet followed by a medically supervised food challenge. These methods help determine which specific foods trigger allergic symptoms. At Healthscreening.sg, individual food allergen tests start from $54.50, and comprehensive food panels are also available depending on your needs.

Can allergies go away with exposure?

Some allergies may improve over time with controlled exposure, but this depends on the type of allergen and the individual’s immune response. For example, children may outgrow certain food allergies like milk or egg, while environmental allergies often persist. Unsupervised exposure can be risky and may worsen symptoms. It is advisable to consult a doctor to determine whether gradual exposure or desensitisation is medically appropriate in your case.

Can food allergies cause severe stomach pain?

Yes, food allergies can cause severe stomach pain along with other gastrointestinal symptoms such as cramping, bloating, vomiting, or diarrhoea. These reactions result from the immune system's response to specific food proteins. In some cases, symptoms may mimic food intolerance or other digestive disorders.

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Health Screening Singapore
(Anson House)

Nearest MRT: EW15 Tanjong Pagar

Health Screening Singapore
(Camden Medical Centre)

Nearest MRT: TE13 Orchard Boulevard