An allergist will likely identify the insect responsible for stinging insect allergy with specialized allergy testing. This type of testing is generally reserved for individuals who have had a previous systemic reaction. Allergists perform skin testing to common stinging insects including honey bees, wasps, hornets and yellow jackets. Imported fire ants can also cause an anaphylactic reaction and testing is also available for this insect. Based on the test results, your allergy specialist will determine the risk for future reactions and whether immunotherapy, or desensitization therapy, is indicated. Unfortunately, many patients never have their allergic reactions evaluated by an allergist, thus placing them at risk for severe reactions with subsequent stings.