Allergy Test Cost in the Philippines [2026 Price Guide]

Quick Answer: Allergy testing in the Philippines costs ₱2,000-₱15,000 depending on the type and number of allergens tested. A skin prick test (SPT) panel costs ₱2,000-₱5,000 for 20-40 allergens. A specific IgE blood test panel costs ₱5,000-₱15,000 depending on the number of allergens. Individual specific IgE tests cost ₱500-₱1,500 each. Patch testing for contact dermatitis costs ₱3,000-₱8,000. Top allergy centers include The Medical City, St. Luke's Medical Center, and Makati Medical Center.

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• What Is Allergy Testing?
• Price Breakdown by Test Type
• What Is Included in the Price
• Additional Costs to Expect
• Price by City
• Top Allergy Clinics and Centers
• PhilHealth Coverage for Allergy Tests
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Conclusion

Introduction

Allergies affect millions of Filipinos, causing symptoms that range from mildly annoying (sneezing, itchy eyes) to life-threatening (anaphylaxis). Despite how common allergies are, many Filipinos live with undiagnosed allergies for years — managing symptoms with antihistamines without ever identifying their specific triggers. Allergy testing identifies exactly what substances your immune system is reacting to, enabling targeted avoidance strategies and more effective treatment.

The cost of allergy testing in the Philippines varies significantly depending on the type of test and the number of allergens screened. Skin prick tests — the gold standard for respiratory and food allergies — cost ₱2,000-₱5,000 for a standard panel. Blood-based specific IgE tests are more expensive at ₱5,000-₱15,000 but can test for a wider range of allergens without requiring you to stop antihistamine medications.

This guide covers every type of allergy test available in the Philippines in 2026, what each test costs, and where to get tested. Whether you are dealing with chronic rhinitis, recurrent skin rashes, asthma, food allergies, or unexplained reactions, this guide will help you understand your testing options and budget accordingly.

What Is Allergy Testing?

Allergy testing is a diagnostic procedure that identifies specific substances (allergens) triggering an abnormal immune response in your body. When a person is allergic to something — pollen, dust mites, pet dander, certain foods, insect venom, or medications — their immune system produces immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies against that substance. Upon re-exposure, these antibodies trigger the release of histamine and other chemicals, causing allergy symptoms.

Allergy testing detects the presence and level of these specific IgE antibodies, either through skin-based tests (where small amounts of allergens are introduced into the skin and the reaction is observed) or blood-based tests (where a blood sample is analyzed in a laboratory for IgE antibodies against specific allergens).

The results of allergy testing help your allergist or immunologist develop a personalized management plan that may include allergen avoidance strategies, medication adjustments, and in some cases, allergen immunotherapy (allergy shots or sublingual drops) to desensitize your immune system over time.

Allergy testing should be ordered and interpreted by a qualified allergist, immunologist, or a physician experienced in allergy management. The choice of test type and allergen panel depends on your symptoms, medical history, and the suspected allergens.

Price Breakdown by Test Type

Skin Prick Test — SPT (₱2,000-₱5,000)

The skin prick test (SPT) is the most widely used and cost-effective allergy test. Small drops of allergen extracts are placed on the forearm or back, and the skin beneath each drop is gently pricked with a small lancet. If you are allergic to a substance, a small raised bump (wheal) surrounded by redness (flare) develops within 15-20 minutes — similar to a mosquito bite. The test is quick, minimally painful, and provides results in the same visit.

A standard SPT panel tests 20-40 common allergens including house dust mites, cockroach, mold, cat dander, dog dander, grass pollen, tree pollen, common food allergens (shrimp, crab, peanut, egg, milk, soy, wheat), and other regional allergens. The number of allergens in the panel determines the cost — basic panels (20 allergens) cost ₱2,000-₱3,000, while comprehensive panels (40+ allergens) cost ₱3,500-₱5,000.

Important: You must stop taking antihistamines 5-7 days before the test, as antihistamines suppress the skin reaction and can produce false negative results.

Best for: Respiratory allergies (rhinitis, asthma), food allergies, insect allergies, most common allergy evaluations.

Specific IgE Blood Test — Individual Allergens (₱500-₱1,500 per allergen)

Specific IgE blood tests (formerly called RAST tests, now often ImmunoCAP or FEIA tests) measure the level of IgE antibodies against individual allergens in a blood sample. Unlike skin prick tests, blood tests do not require you to stop antihistamines and carry no risk of allergic reaction during the test. Individual specific IgE tests cost ₱500-₱1,500 each, and your allergist selects specific allergens to test based on your clinical history.

Best for: Patients who cannot stop antihistamines, patients with severe eczema (where skin testing is difficult), patients with a history of anaphylaxis, confirmatory testing after skin prick test.

Specific IgE Panel — Multiple Allergens (₱5,000-₱15,000)

For comprehensive allergy screening, laboratories offer specific IgE panels that test for multiple allergens simultaneously. A basic respiratory panel (20 allergens including dust mites, molds, pet dander, pollens) costs ₱5,000-₱8,000. A food allergy panel (20-30 food allergens) costs ₱5,000-₱10,000. A comprehensive panel covering both respiratory and food allergens (40-60 allergens) costs ₱10,000-₱15,000. Premium panels using component-resolved diagnostics (CRD) that test for individual allergenic proteins are available at select centers for ₱12,000-₱18,000.

Best for: Comprehensive allergy screening, patients needing both respiratory and food allergen testing, pre-immunotherapy evaluation.

Total IgE Test (₱500-₱1,000)

Total IgE measures the overall level of IgE antibodies in the blood. While elevated total IgE suggests an atopic (allergy-prone) tendency, it does not identify specific allergens. It is a general screening test that helps determine whether further allergy testing is warranted. Total IgE can also be elevated in parasitic infections, certain immune conditions, and allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA).

Best for: Initial screening for atopic tendency, supporting evidence for allergy diagnosis, asthma evaluation.

Patch Test — Contact Dermatitis (₱3,000-₱8,000)

Patch testing identifies allergens that cause contact dermatitis — delayed allergic skin reactions triggered by direct contact with substances like nickel, fragrances, preservatives, hair dyes, rubber chemicals, and topical medications. Small patches containing standardized allergen preparations are applied to the back and left in place for 48 hours. The patches are removed and reactions are read at 48 hours and 72-96 hours. A standard patch test series (TRUE test or European standard series) tests 25-80 allergens.

Best for: Chronic eczema, recurrent skin rashes, occupational skin disease, suspected contact allergy to cosmetics/jewelry/chemicals.

Food Challenge Test (₱3,000-₱8,000)

An oral food challenge (OFC) is considered the gold standard for diagnosing food allergies. Under medical supervision, the patient eats gradually increasing amounts of a suspected food allergen while being monitored for reactions. This test is performed in a clinical setting with emergency equipment available, as reactions can be severe. It is typically reserved for cases where skin prick and blood test results are equivocal or to confirm whether a previously diagnosed food allergy has been outgrown.

Best for: Confirming or ruling out food allergies, determining if a food allergy has been outgrown, equivocal skin/blood test results.

Price Comparison Table

What Is Included in the Price

A standard allergy test fee typically includes:

For skin prick tests:

• Allergist or immunologist consultation
• Allergen extract materials for the panel
• Skin prick testing procedure
• 15-20 minute observation period for reaction reading
• Measurement and documentation of wheal/flare sizes
• Interpretation of results and discussion with the doctor
• Written results summary

For specific IgE blood tests:

• Blood extraction (venipuncture)
• Laboratory processing and IgE quantification
• Official laboratory result document
• Some clinics include a follow-up consultation to discuss results

For patch tests:

• Application of patches (visit 1)
• Patch removal and initial reading (visit 2, at 48 hours)
• Final delayed reading (visit 3, at 72-96 hours)
• All three visits and the patch test materials

Additional Costs to Expect

• Allergist/immunologist consultation fee: ₱800-₱2,000 if the initial consultation is billed separately from the testing
• Follow-up consultation: ₱500-₱1,500 to discuss results and management plan
• Additional individual allergen tests: ₱500-₱1,500 per allergen if specific additional allergens are tested beyond the standard panel
• Allergen immunotherapy (if recommended): ₱2,000-₱5,000 per injection session for subcutaneous immunotherapy (SCIT), or ₱3,000-₱8,000 per month for sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT)
• Prescription medications: ₱300-₱2,000 per month for antihistamines, nasal sprays, inhalers, or other allergy medications
• Epinephrine auto-injector: ₱3,000-₱5,000 if prescribed for patients at risk of anaphylaxis
• Pulmonary function test: ₱1,000-₱2,500 if asthma evaluation is needed alongside allergy testing

Price by City

Allergy testing is primarily available in major cities where allergist-immunologists practice and specialized laboratory equipment is available.

Top Allergy Clinics and Centers

1. The Medical City — Allergy and Immunology Section, Pasig City

• Address: Ortigas Ave., Pasig City
• Price Range: Skin prick test ₱3,000-₱5,000; specific IgE panel ₱6,000-₱12,000; patch test ₱4,000-₱7,000
• Key Features: Dedicated allergy section, multiple allergist-immunologists, comprehensive testing, immunotherapy services
• PhilHealth Accredited: Yes
• Standout Feature: Has one of the largest allergy and immunology departments in the Philippines with multiple board-certified allergists offering the full spectrum of allergy testing and treatment. Their immunotherapy program (both subcutaneous and sublingual) is well-established, and they handle complex allergy cases including drug allergies, food allergies, and allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis.

View full profile on ClinicFinderPH

2. St. Luke's Medical Center — Quezon City / BGC

• Address: E. Rodriguez Sr. Ave., QC / 32nd St. & 5th Ave., BGC, Taguig
• Price Range: Skin prick test ₱2,500-₱4,500; specific IgE panel ₱5,000-₱12,000; food challenge ₱5,000-₱8,000
• Key Features: Hospital-based allergy center, pediatric and adult allergists, in-house laboratory for IgE testing
• PhilHealth Accredited: Yes
• Standout Feature: Offers both pediatric and adult allergy services, making it ideal for families. Their in-house laboratory performs specific IgE testing with faster turnaround than send-out labs. The hospital setting also allows for supervised oral food challenges with immediate access to emergency facilities — essential for patients being tested for potentially severe food allergies.

3. Makati Medical Center — Allergy and Immunology Section

• Address: No. 2 Amorsolo St., Makati City
• Price Range: Skin prick test ₱2,500-₱4,000; specific IgE panel ₱5,000-₱10,000; patch test ₱3,500-₱6,000
• Key Features: Board-certified allergists, full allergy testing suite, central Makati location
• PhilHealth Accredited: Yes
• Standout Feature: Conveniently located in the heart of Makati's business district with experienced allergist-immunologists and a comprehensive testing menu. Their patch testing program for contact dermatitis is well-established, making them a good choice for patients with chronic skin rashes or occupational skin allergies.

View full profile on ClinicFinderPH

4. Philippine General Hospital — Allergy and Immunology Section

• Address: Taft Ave., Ermita, Manila
• Price Range: Skin prick test ₱1,500-₱3,000; specific IgE (individual) ₱400-₱800; patch test ₱2,000-₱5,000
• Key Features: Government hospital rates, expert allergists (UP faculty), teaching hospital
• PhilHealth Accredited: Yes
• Standout Feature: The most affordable allergy testing option in Metro Manila. PGH's allergy section is staffed by UP College of Medicine faculty who are leaders in the field of allergy and immunology in the Philippines. The trade-off is longer wait times for appointments, but the expertise and cost savings are substantial — often 40-60% less than private hospital rates.

View full profile on ClinicFinderPH

5. Chong Hua Hospital — Cebu City

• Address: Don Mariano Cui St., Cebu City
• Price Range: Skin prick test ₱2,000-₱4,000; specific IgE panel ₱5,000-₱9,000
• Key Features: Visayas referral hospital, allergy clinic with board-certified allergists
• PhilHealth Accredited: Yes
• Standout Feature: The leading hospital for allergy testing in the Visayas region. Their allergy clinic offers skin prick testing and coordinates with reference laboratories for comprehensive IgE panels. Patients from across the Visayas are referred here for allergy evaluation and immunotherapy initiation.

6. Davao Doctors Hospital — Davao City

• Address: E. Quirino Ave., Davao City
• Price Range: Skin prick test ₱2,000-₱3,500; specific IgE panel ₱5,000-₱8,000
• Key Features: Mindanao's premier hospital, allergy services, competitive pricing
• PhilHealth Accredited: Yes
• Standout Feature: The primary facility for allergy testing in Mindanao with board-certified allergists and access to both skin prick testing and laboratory-based IgE testing. Their pricing is generally lower than Metro Manila facilities, making allergy testing more accessible for patients in the Davao region.

View full profile on ClinicFinderPH

Comparison Table

PhilHealth Coverage for Allergy Tests

Allergy tests performed as outpatient diagnostic procedures are generally not covered by PhilHealth. Allergy testing is considered a specialized diagnostic service that falls outside PhilHealth's standard outpatient benefit packages.

Coverage may apply in limited situations:

• Inpatient admission: If allergy testing is performed during a hospital admission (for example, during evaluation of an anaphylactic event), it may be included in the PhilHealth case rate for the admitted condition.
• Outpatient packages: The PhilHealth Konsulta package does not currently include specialized allergy testing.

For most patients, allergy testing is an out-of-pocket expense. Given the ₱2,000-₱15,000 cost range, it is a meaningful investment — but one that can significantly improve quality of life by identifying treatable allergens.

HMO Coverage

Many corporate HMO plans cover allergy testing when ordered by an accredited physician and considered medically necessary. Coverage typically requires a Letter of Authorization (LOA) from your HMO. Check your plan for specific coverage details, covered tests, and accredited allergy centers. Some HMOs limit coverage to skin prick tests and may not cover comprehensive IgE panels without prior authorization.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does an allergy test cost in the Philippines?

Allergy testing costs ₱2,000-₱15,000 in the Philippines depending on the type and number of allergens. A skin prick test (the most common type) costs ₱2,000-₱5,000 for a panel of 20-40 allergens. A specific IgE blood test panel costs ₱5,000-₱15,000 depending on the number of allergens tested. Individual specific IgE tests cost ₱500-₱1,500 each. Patch testing for contact dermatitis costs ₱3,000-₱8,000. Government hospitals like PGH offer the most affordable rates, with skin prick tests starting at ₱1,500-₱3,000.

Which allergy test is best — skin prick or blood test?

The skin prick test (SPT) is the gold standard for most allergy evaluations — it is faster (results in 15-20 minutes), cheaper (₱2,000-₱5,000), and has excellent sensitivity. However, SPT requires you to stop antihistamines 5-7 days before the test and cannot be performed on patients with severe eczema or dermographism. Specific IgE blood tests do not require stopping medications, carry no risk of allergic reaction, and can be done regardless of skin condition — but they are more expensive (₱5,000-₱15,000) and results take 3-7 days. Your allergist will recommend the best test based on your specific situation.

Do I need to stop taking antihistamines before an allergy test?

For skin prick tests, yes — you must stop antihistamines 5-7 days before the test. First-generation antihistamines (diphenhydramine/Benadryl) should be stopped 3 days before, while second-generation antihistamines (cetirizine, loratadine, fexofenadine) should be stopped 5-7 days before. Other medications that may interfere with skin testing include tricyclic antidepressants and certain gastric acid medications. For specific IgE blood tests, no medication changes are needed — you can continue all your medications normally. Always consult your allergist before stopping any medications.

What allergies are most common in the Philippines?

The most common allergies among Filipinos are respiratory allergies triggered by house dust mites (the leading cause of allergic rhinitis and asthma in the Philippines), cockroach allergens, mold spores, pet dander (cats and dogs), and grass pollens. Common food allergies include shrimp, crab, and other shellfish (particularly prevalent in the Philippines), peanuts, eggs, cow's milk, soy, and wheat. Drug allergies — particularly to antibiotics (penicillin, amoxicillin, sulfa drugs) and NSAIDs (ibuprofen, mefenamic acid) — are also significant. For blood test pricing related to allergy workup, see our blood test cost guide.

Can children undergo allergy testing?

Yes, children can undergo allergy testing at any age, though the approach varies. Skin prick tests can be performed on infants as young as 6 months, though the test is more commonly done in children aged 2 and older. Specific IgE blood tests can be performed at any age, including infants, and are preferred for very young children because they only require a blood draw. A pediatric allergist-immunologist should perform and interpret allergy tests in children. If your child has symptoms of food allergy, eczema, asthma, or chronic rhinitis, allergy testing can help identify triggers and guide treatment.

How accurate are allergy tests?

Allergy tests are highly accurate when performed and interpreted correctly by a trained allergist. Skin prick tests have a sensitivity of approximately 85-90% and a specificity of about 80-85% for IgE-mediated allergies. Specific IgE blood tests have similar accuracy. However, no allergy test is perfect — false positives (positive test but no clinical allergy) and false negatives (negative test despite clinical allergy) can occur. This is why allergy test results must always be interpreted in the context of the patient's clinical history and symptoms. A positive test alone does not confirm a clinical allergy — the allergen must also cause symptoms upon exposure.

What happens after allergy testing?

After allergy testing, your allergist will review the results with you and develop a personalized management plan. This typically includes allergen avoidance strategies (environmental modifications, dietary changes), medication optimization (antihistamines, nasal corticosteroids, inhaled corticosteroids for asthma), and, when appropriate, allergen immunotherapy. Immunotherapy involves regular injections or sublingual drops/tablets containing small amounts of your identified allergens, gradually desensitizing your immune system over 3-5 years. Follow-up visits every 3-12 months help monitor your progress and adjust treatment as needed.

Can allergy tests identify food intolerances?

Standard allergy tests (skin prick tests and specific IgE blood tests) only detect IgE-mediated allergies — immune reactions involving IgE antibodies. They do not detect food intolerances, which involve different mechanisms. Lactose intolerance (inability to digest lactose), for example, is a digestive enzyme deficiency, not an immune reaction, and requires a lactose tolerance test or hydrogen breath test for diagnosis. Similarly, IgG food sensitivity panels marketed by some laboratories are not recommended by major allergy societies, as IgG antibodies to foods represent normal immune exposure, not allergy. If you suspect food intolerance rather than true food allergy, discuss the appropriate diagnostic approach with your gastroenterologist or allergist.

Conclusion

Allergy testing is a valuable diagnostic investment that can transform how you manage chronic allergy symptoms. By identifying your specific triggers, you can take targeted steps to reduce exposure and work with your doctor to optimize treatment — potentially reducing your reliance on daily medications and improving your quality of life significantly.

In the Philippines, allergy testing is available at ₱2,000-₱15,000 depending on the type and scope. Skin prick tests offer the best value for most patients at ₱2,000-₱5,000 for a comprehensive allergen panel. For patients who cannot stop antihistamines or have skin conditions, specific IgE blood tests provide an excellent alternative.

For more information on diagnostic testing costs, check out these related guides:

• Blood test cost in the Philippines
• ENT clinics in Cebu
• Dermatology clinics in Cebu

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