Skin allergy test – White poplar
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The skin allergy test (prick test) is a quick and minimally invasive method for diagnosing IgE-mediated allergies. Drops of white poplar (Populus alba) allergen extract are applied to the forearm, followed by a superficial prick (approx. 1 mm). If the patient is sensitized, a red papule appears at the test site within 15 minutes.
Poplar pollen contains allergens such as Pop a1 and LTP proteins (lipid transfer proteins), which can trigger respiratory allergic reactions: rhinitis, conjunctivitis, and seasonal asthma. Patients may experience symptoms during the poplar pollen season.
Results must be interpreted by an allergist in the context of the patient’s symptoms for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan.
Purpose of the test
Confirms respiratory allergy to white poplar pollen and supports the physician in selecting the appropriate treatment (antihistamines, specific immunotherapy).
Indications
Seasonal rhinitis and conjunctivitis in spring.
Cough, wheezing, or asthma during pollen season.
Persistent symptoms upon exposure to poplar pollen.
Preparation
Discontinue antihistamines 3–5 days before the test.
Avoid topical corticosteroids on the forearm.
Inform the physician about immunosuppressive treatments or prior severe allergies.
Procedure
Drops of controls and poplar pollen extract are applied to the forearm; a superficial prick is performed. The reaction is read after 15 minutes.
Factors that may influence results
Application technique (prick depth, spacing of drops).
Medications: antihistamines, corticosteroids, antidepressants.
Patient age (reduced reactions in young children or elderly).
Presence of dermatographism or local skin conditions.
The white poplar skin test is safe and effective for confirming sensitization and guiding treatment.
Sources:
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2772829325001572
https://www.allergy.org.au/images/stories/pospapers/ASCIA_SPT_Manual_March_2016.pdf
https://www.riaponline.it/article/view/1109
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/all.15902
https://jpedres.org/articles/optimal-skin-prick-test-panel-for-detecting-respiratory-allergens-in-children-a-retrospective-study/jpr.galenos.2023.91069
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10102226/
Preparation:
5–7 days before the test: Stop taking antihistamine medications (on doctor's advice), as they may influence the test result. Avoid topical corticosteroid treatments on the forearms. Do not apply creams, lotions or perfumes to your forearms in the days leading up to the test. On the day of the test: Come with clean skin, no cosmetics applied to the area where the test is done (forearm or back). Tell your doctor about all the treatments you are taking (including dietary supplements or herbs). Avoid drinking too much coffee or alcohol before the test.
