Immunologist vs Allergist: What’s the Difference?
Amerimmune Clinic specializes in both allergy and immunology, offering a comprehensive approach to diagnosing and managing a wide range of conditions. Whether you’re experiencing allergic reactions such as hay fever, food allergies, asthma, eczema, or anaphylaxis, or dealing with broader immunological issues like frequent infections, autoimmune diseases, or unexplained inflammation, Dr. Oral Alpan, MD, and our team are equipped to address your needs. For more information, contact us or request an appointment online. We have convenient locations in McLean VA, Alexandria VA, Arlington VA, Bethesda MD, Gaithersburg MD, and Rockville MD.


Table of Contents:
Should I see an allergist or an immunologist?
Is an immunologist more focused on immune system diseases than allergies?
Can an allergist diagnose immune system disorders?
What can an immunologist test for?
Our specialists at Amerimmune Clinic are trained in both fields, providing integrated care that encompasses the nuances of each discipline. This means that regardless of whether your symptoms are primarily allergic or immunological, you will receive a thorough evaluation and a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific health concerns.
If you’re unsure about which specialist to consult, our clinic serves as a one-stop solution. We offer initial assessments to determine the most appropriate course of action and ensure that you receive the care best suited to your condition. At Amerimmune Clinic, our priority is to deliver effective management and support to enhance your overall well-being, offering you peace of mind and improved health outcomes.
Our clinic is particularly focused on providing tailored solutions for patients with autoimmune disorders, immunodeficiencies, and infectious diseases. These conditions require precise diagnosis and management, and our team is committed to offering personalized treatment plans that address the unique needs of each patient.
In addition to immune system diseases, Amerimmune Clinic also specializes in managing allergies. Our immunologists work in tandem with allergists to provide comprehensive care for conditions such as asthma and other respiratory issues. This collaborative approach ensures that patients benefit from a broad spectrum of expertise, leading to more effective and holistic treatment outcomes.
We recognize that both autoimmune diseases and allergies are manifestations of immune system dysregulation. Our in-depth understanding of immune mechanisms allows us to deliver precise and effective care, whether the immune system is mistakenly attacking the body or overreacting to harmless substances.
By choosing Amerimmune Clinic, patients gain access to a team of specialists who are committed to providing cutting-edge care for a wide variety of immune-related conditions. Our focus on individualized treatment ensures that each patient receives the highest standard of care, tailored to their specific health needs.
Our team, equipped with in-depth knowledge of the immune system, is adept at identifying symptoms that suggest immune dysfunction. Patients experiencing recurrent infections, unexplained inflammation, or persistent allergic reactions will benefit from a detailed evaluation at Amerimmune Clinic. This evaluation includes a thorough medical history, physical examinations, and specialized laboratory tests to assess immune function. These tests may involve measuring immunoglobulin levels, evaluating responses to vaccines, and identifying specific antibodies that could indicate underlying immune disorders.
At Amerimmune Clinic, we recognize the importance of collaborative care. While our specialists are proficient in diagnosing and managing primary immunodeficiency diseases and other immune-related issues, we also understand when it is necessary to involve an immunologist or another specialist for more complex cases. Our approach ensures that every patient receives tailored care, leveraging our expertise while coordinating with other healthcare professionals as needed.
Our commitment is to provide comprehensive care, from initial identification and management of immune system disorders to ensuring seamless referrals for more complex conditions. Amerimmune Clinic is dedicated to delivering personalized and effective treatment plans that address both allergic and broader immune system health concerns.
One of our primary areas of focus is allergy identification and management. Our immunologists utilize advanced diagnostic techniques, such as skin prick tests and specific IgE blood tests, to accurately determine allergic reactions to substances like pollen, food, or pet dander. This precise identification of allergy triggers enables us to effectively treat conditions such as asthma, hay fever, and other allergic responses, enhancing our patients’ quality of life.
In addition to allergies, our clinic specializes in the assessment and management of autoimmune diseases, where the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own tissues. We offer a variety of diagnostic tests and specific autoantibody tests, to diagnose complex conditions such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and multiple sclerosis. These tests provide valuable insights into disease mechanisms and progression, allowing us to develop targeted treatment strategies.
Amerimmune Clinic also excels in diagnosing and managing immunodeficiency disorders, conditions where the immune system is underactive or defective, increasing susceptibility to infections. Our comprehensive testing, including immunoglobulin levels, lymphocyte counts, and specific genetic tests, helps diagnose disorders like common variable immunodeficiency (CVID) and severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID), facilitating timely and effective interventions.
At Amerimmune Clinic, we are committed to providing personalized, cutting-edge care. Our diverse array of tests and individualized treatment plans empower our patients with the knowledge and tools they need to manage their immune-related conditions effectively, promoting better health outcomes and overall well-being. For more information, contact us or request an appointment online. We have convenient locations to serve near you. We serve patients from McLean VA, Alexandria VA, Arlington VA, Bethesda MD, Gaithersburg MD, Rockville MD, Vienna VA, IdylWood VA, Lincolnia VA, Groveton VA, Falls Church VA, North Bethesda MD, Takoma Park MD, Montgomery Village MD, Redland MD, Aspen Hill MD, and surrounding areas.

Additional Services You May Need
▸ Allergy Consultation
▸ Immunology Consultation
▸ Allergen Immunotherapy
▸ Allergy Vials
▸ Allergy Shots
▸ Biological Drug Administration
▸ Diagnostic Testing
▸ Skin Prick Testing
▸ Allergy Patch Testing
▸ Oral Food Challenge Testing
▸ Nasal Swab Culture Testing
▸ Routine Venipuncture Testing
▸ Telehealth
▸ Immunology Testing
▸ Food Allergy Testing
▸ Asthma

Additional Services You May Need
▸ Allergy Consultation
▸ Immunology Consultation
▸ Allergen Immunotherapy
▸ Allergy Vials
▸ Allergy Shots
▸ Biological Drug Administration
▸ Diagnostic Testing
▸ Skin Prick Testing
▸ Allergy Patch Testing
▸ Oral Food Challenge Testing
▸ Nasal Swab Culture Testing
▸ Routine Venipuncture Testing
▸ Telehealth
▸ Immunology Testing
▸ Food Allergy Testing
▸ Asthma