use test, a procedure used to identify offending allergens in foods, cosmetics, or fabrics by the systematic elimination and addition, one at a time, of specific items associated with the lifestyle of the patient involved. Allergic reactions to the use test may be immediate or spread over a considerable period of time. Some patients undergoing the test become frustrated and discouraged, requiring regular encouragement to continue the search for sources of their allergies by this method. See also allergy testing.
