Private Allergy Testing in London
Comprehensive testing for adults and children at 117a Harley Street. If you suspect you have an allergy but cannot identify the cause, the best way to know for sure is to undergo allergy testing. Knowing exactly what triggers your symptoms helps you avoid specific allergens, make informed decisions about treatment, and stop guessing.
Why Get Tested?
Allergies affect around one in four people in the UK, and the number is rising. Symptoms range from mild irritation to severe, potentially life-threatening reactions.
Common Allergy Symptoms
- • Sneezing, runny nose, or nasal congestion
- • Itchy or watering eyes
- • Skin rashes, hives, or eczema flare-ups
- • Swelling of the lips, tongue, or throat
- • Digestive symptoms after eating certain foods
- • Wheezing or difficulty breathing
- • Reactions to insect stings
Many people live with these symptoms for years, managing them with antihistamines without ever identifying the underlying cause. Testing can disrupt the cycle of simply managing symptoms so you can tackle your allergies head-on under our expert guidance. Once you know what causes your reactions, you can take steps to reduce exposure and pursue treatment where appropriate.
Our Testing Options
ALEX3 Comprehensive Allergy Test
Our most thorough option
The ALEX3 test screens for sensitivity to over 290 allergens in a single blood sample, covering foods, pollens, animal dander, moulds, dust mites, insect venoms, and more.
This test is ideal if you have multiple or unclear symptoms and want a complete picture. Results are typically available within five working days and include a detailed report.
Skin Prick Testing
Gold standard for immediate reactions
Skin prick testing is the gold standard for identifying immediate allergic reactions. Small drops of allergen extract are applied to the forearm and the skin is lightly pricked. If you are allergic, a small raised bump (wheal) appears within 15 to 20 minutes.
This method is safe for adults, children, and infants. It provides results during your appointment, allowing for immediate discussion with your Consultant Immunologist.
Includes: Consultation and up to 8 allergens. Additional allergens can be tested for £10 each (up to 5 more). If you suspect a specific allergen, you can bring a sample for testing.
Blood Test Panels
We offer targeted panels for specific allergy concerns. If you are unsure which test is appropriate, our immunologist can advise during your consultation and we can conduct any of the tests below at the time of your appointment.
| Allergy Panel | Price |
|---|---|
| Allergic Rhinitis / Asthma Profile | £401.25 |
| Food and Inhalants (Profile 1) | £752.50 |
| UK Aero Allergens (Profile 2) | £415.00 |
| Food Allergens (Profile 3) | £376.25 |
| Nuts and Seeds (Profile 4) | £531.25 |
| Children's Panel (Profile 5) | £376.25 |
| Shellfish (Profile 6) | £337.50 |
| Finfish (Profile 7) | £337.50 |
| Cereals (Profile 8) | £271.25 |
| Antibiotics (Profile 9) | £155.00 |
| Insects (Profile 10) | £240.00 |
| Combined Shellfish / Finfish (Profile 11) | £271.25 |
| Milk and Milk Proteins (Profile 12) | £298.75 |
| Stone Fruit / Rosaceae Family (Profile 13) | £298.75 |
| Atopic Dermatitis / Eczema Profile (14 allergens) | £430.00 |
| Gluten Sensitivity Profile | £246.25 |
| Individual Allergens (per allergen) | £54.38 |
What Happens at Your Appointment?
Your first consultation includes a detailed review of your symptoms, medical history, and any suspected triggers. Based on this, Dr Pereira will recommend the most appropriate testing approach.
If skin prick testing is performed, results are available within 20 minutes. Blood test results typically take two to five working days depending on the panel.
Once results are back, you can book in for a follow-up consultation to discuss findings, confirm diagnoses, and plan next steps. This may include allergen avoidance advice, medication, or in some cases, immunotherapy.
Before Your Appointment
Medications
Stop antihistamines: You must stop taking all antihistamines 3 days (72 hours) before your appointment if having skin prick testing.
Continue other meds: Continue taking all other prescribed medications as usual, including asthma inhalers and nasal sprays.
What to Bring
- • List of current medications
- • Photos of any skin reactions (if applicable)
- • Any previous test results
- • Suspected food/substance sample (if specific)
Allergy Testing for Children
We regularly test children of all ages, including infants. The ALEX3 blood test requires only a small sample and is well tolerated. Skin prick testing is also safe for young children and is not painful, just a light scratch on the surface of the skin.
Identifying allergies early can significantly improve a child's quality of life, particularly for conditions like eczema, asthma, and food allergies.
Our Consultant Immunologist
Dr Scott Pereira is a consultant immunologist with over 30 years of clinical experience. He trained at Cambridge University Medical School, holds a PhD from University College London, and has held senior academic posts at St George's and Imperial College London.
His expertise includes allergic rhinitis, urticaria, angioedema, insect sting allergies, food allergies, and immunodeficiency. He has extensive experience in allergen desensitisation (immunotherapy) and uses the latest diagnostic technology in his practice.
GMC: 1524080
Book Your Consultation
Allergy consultations with Dr Scott Pereira are available at 117a Harley Street. Testing can be performed on the same day as your initial appointment.
Dr Scott Pereira MA, MB, B Chir, PhD, FRCPath
Immunology & Allergy • GMC 01524080
"Consultant immunologist with over 30 years of experience. Expert in complex allergy diagnostics, allergic rhinitis, urticaria, and allergen desensitisation (immunotherapy)."
View Clinical ProfileTreatment Menu & Fees
Transparent pricing for all our services.
Allergy Consultation
£250ALEX3 Comprehensive Test
£450Skin Prick Testing
From £400Blood Panel Tests
From £155Common Questions
Q.How accurate is allergy testing?
Skin prick tests and IgE blood tests are highly reliable for detecting sensitisation. However, a positive test indicates sensitivity, not necessarily clinical allergy. Your immunologist will interpret results in the context of your symptoms and history.
Q.Can I be tested for food intolerances?
Allergy testing detects IgE-mediated immune responses. Food intolerances (such as lactose intolerance) involve different mechanisms and require different investigations. If you are unsure whether you have an allergy or intolerance, discuss this during your consultation.
Q.How soon will I get results?
Skin prick test results are immediate. Blood test results take two to five working days depending on the panel.
Q.Is allergy testing covered by insurance?
Many insurers cover allergy consultations and testing. Check with your provider before booking.
