Procedures

Any one of the various procedures used in identifying the specific allergens. Such tests are helpful in prescribing treatment to prevent allergic reactions or to reduce their severity. The most common allergy skin testing, which exposes the patient to small quantities of the suspected allergens. Factors considered in performing allergy tests include the medical history of the patient, the allergy history, the environment, and the diet. Individuals to be tested are usually instructed to discontinue the use of any antihistamines at least 24 hours before the test because these drugs can interfere with normal test responses.

Urinalysis is a diagnostic physical, chemical, and microscopic examination of a urine sample (specimen). Specimens can be obtained by the normal emptying of the bladder (voiding) or by a hospital procedure called catheterization.

Urinalyses are performed for several reasons:
general evaluation of health
diagnosis of metabolic or systemic diseases that affect kidney function
diagnosis of endocrine disorders. Twenty-four-hour urine studies are often ordered for these tests
diagnosis of diseases or disorders of the kidneys or urinary tract
monitoring of patients with diabetes
testing for pregnancy
screening for drug abuse
Urine collected eight hours after eating and at least six hours after the most recent urination is more likely to indicate abnormalities.