Skin test for Lidocaine allergy

This is a 45 yo male who came in the office for nose bleeding. He has had recurrent nosebleeds for many years. He desires to have nasal cauterization. He thought he had an allergy to lidocaine, but he could not be sure.

To be safe a skin test was performed. There is large wheel and flare response on the skin; therefore, the patient is allergic to Lidocaine. The patient now has a critical piece of information about his allergy to Lidocaine that could prevent future harms. He was instructed to inform his dentist and other doctors about allergy.

The cauterization of his nosebleed proceeded without Lidocaine.