Treatment Explanation Letter
Dear Patient:
You are probably wondering what allergy testing is all about, to
what extent it is involved, and what treatment we can offer you. You will have plenty of
opportunity to learn more about allergies in our office, however, we would like to mention
briefly that allergies can affect many systems. Almost any part of the body can be
affected, and many symptoms, such as coughing, sore throats, sneezing, headaches,
bloating, pain, diarrhea, runny nose, shortness of breath, fatigue, itching of the eyes,
blockage of the nose, wheezing, hives, eczema, insomnia, hyperactivity, recurrent colds,
etc., can all be related to allergies. Usually, an allergy is caused by inhalant pollens,
dust, dander, contactants, foods, drugs, and more.
Our procedure will involve the following:
1st visit: An evaluation review of your medical history, all
of the pertinent facts, a complete examination, and if necessary other laboratory tests to
exclude other factors which contribute to your symptoms. The first allergy test is called
ŒSCRATCH TEST*. It consists of 32 different allergens. The test is performed by
putting a drop of liquid, each containing a different allergen, on a plastic device which
scratch the skin. After 20 minutes, the results will show if you are allergic to the
material by local swelling around the tested area. This type of test helps us to identify
the supersensitive person.
2nd visit: Other testing is done using a different method
called ŒINTRADERMAL TEST*. It consists of 14 pollens and inhalants. The test is
performed by putting one drop of material under the first layer of skin with a small
needle. The test is more accurate, and the concentration of allergens is lower. The
results of this test are read in 20 minutes, and special note is taken of any delayed
reactions a day later.
3rd visit: This visit includes the same type of testing as
mentioned above, and will involve 14 food antigens. At the end of this visit, you will
confer with us and we will outline the options and various treatment methods.
*Please understand that the allergy testing plan is tailored
to the patient¹s needs according to the clinical picture and the history. Sometimes the
routine allergy evaluation does not provide us with sufficient information and clues.
Therefore, it is necessary for us to do additional testing like the following.
SPECIAL INTRADERMAL: We test for various allergens with
higher concentrations. The procedure is the same as the two tests previously mentioned.
PATCH TESTING: In this test we are checking for certain
chemicals, metals, and cosmetics usually causing rashes, dermatitis, ulcers in the mouth,
swelling of the eyes, etc. This test involves applying material onto the skin for 48
hours. After this period, the doctor evaluates the results.
RAST: RadioAllergoSorbent Test. This is a blood test in which
we check directly the specific allergy antibodies for which the patient is being treated,
or for diagnosis of certain allergy.
PULMONARY FUNCTION TEST: This is a test that checks the lung
function in case of respiratory allergies.
Please feel free to discuss with our secretary and medical personnel
about our procedures, charges, and insurance claims.
Sincerely,
Salmon S. Goldberg M.D.
David S. Chudwin M.D
Kathy R. Sonenthal M.D.
Noga Askenazi M.D.
Form #14 |