Article: Blood tests aren't conclusive on allergies

DEAR DR. DONOHUE: How reliable are blood tests that reveal foods to which a person is allergic? An aunt of mine had this done in a clinic and was told she was allergic to more than 20 foods. H.D.

DEAR H.D.: Word is out to be wary of tests for food allergy based on a simple blood reaction.

I presume you are referring to one of the cytotoxic clinics. The blood sample is placed on slides and challenged by exposure to various foods. If the blood cells undergo certain changes, the person is said to be allergic to that food. The American Academy of Allergy and Immunology and the Food and Drug Administration say such tests are not reliable and lack sound scientific validity.

Your aunt may ...

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