We only test for what your history suggests. A positive test on its own doesn't always mean an allergy, so your doctor reads every result alongside your story. Read ASCIA's patient guide ↗
Allergy tests
Skin prick test
Tiny drops of allergen on your forearm and a gentle prick through each one. A raised, itchy bump means your body is sensitised.
- Finds
- Hay fever triggers, food allergy
- Timing
- We'll confirm how long to allow when we book
- Suitable for
- Adults and children of any age
Patch test
Small patches on your back, each holding a possible trigger. No needles. We read your skin twice over one week.
- Finds
- Contact dermatitis triggers
- Visits
- 3 visits: Day 1, Day 3, Day 5 to 7
- Tailored
- Panel chosen for your history; your own products can be tested
- Good to know
- Keep your back dry until the final reading
Oral food challenge
Small, increasing amounts of a food eaten under close medical supervision to confirm whether it's safe to eat. More on food allergy →
- Why
- To confirm or rule out an allergy, or check if one has been outgrown
- Timing
- Plan to stay with us for about half a day
- Protocol
- Standard ASCIA protocols
Lung function testing
Hay fever and asthma often go together. We can check your lungs in the clinic, which helps confirm asthma, shows how well it's controlled, and is an important safety check before immunotherapy.
Spirometry Bulk billed
You blow out as hard and fast as you can into a mouthpiece, before and after a puff of reliever. Our nurse guides you through it; allow about 30 minutes.
- No smoking or vaping for at least 1 hour
- No alcohol for 8 hours, no vigorous exercise for 30 minutes
- Wear loose clothing and empty your bladder
- Bring your reliever puffer and spacer
- Keep taking your preventer unless told otherwise
FeNO
Fractional exhaled nitric oxide. You breathe out slowly into a small handheld device for about 10 seconds. A raised level can point to allergic airway inflammation that often responds to preventer inhalers.
- Avoid eating, drinking and smoking for 1 hour if you can
- Tell us about nitrate-rich foods that day (leafy greens, beetroot), caffeine or alcohol
See what each test costs on our allergy fees page.
Ready to find your triggers?
Allergy appointments can't be booked online. Email your completed ASCIA Clinical History Form or call us, and our doctors will review it and contact you within 7 business days.