The 3g Allergy Specific IgE Universal Food Allergens Profile Lab Test is a clinical test that is done in individuals suspected for reacting to certain substances present in foods. The food allergens act as stimulants that illicit an allergic reaction in some individuals. The allergies are characterized by an elevation in IgE antibody levels.
A raised IgE antibody level is not diagnostic of an allergic disease; however, it helps to make an accurate diagnosis and plan effective treatment.
In allergic reactions, natural body mediators, such as IgE, carry out severe reactions that lead to the typical allergy symptoms, such as itching, redness, and runny nose. While most are useful indicators of serious underlying abnormalities, some allergic reactions may cause unnecessary damage.
In this test, a patient’s blood sample is taken which is used for the quantitative assay. The specific IgE antibody in the patient’s serum reacts with the allergen. The non-specific IgE is eliminated, while the enzyme-labeled anti-IgE antibody is added to react with the patient’s IgE. The bound complex is preserved; this is used for further testing.
A fluorescence test may be performed which gives results that are proportional to the amount of specific IgE present in the patient’s blood sample. The higher the value, the greater is the amount of specific IgE antibody present.
- What are the advantages of the IgE profile test over other tests?
The IgE mold serum antibody test only detects the antibodies already circulating in your body; it does not require the introduction of any allergen or foreign substance into your body. However, for the detection, a significant amount of the antibodies must be present.
- What are the risks associated with this test?
There are no significant risks associated with this test, except for mild redness, pain, and irritation at the injection site. However, if you experience any severe reactions, please contact your doctor immediately.
- Is IgE Antibody normally present in the body?
IgE antibody is a natural protein found in the human body that mediates immune reactions; however, normally it remains within a narrow range. Usually, the values lower than 0.35 kU/L mean you are not allergic. Please consult your doctor for further information.
- How long does the IgE antibody test take?
The test mostly takes one or more days to show results. The time is primarily dependent on the lab you are getting tested from.
- Is a high value of IgE antibody value fatal?
A high IgE antibody value does not necessarily mean you will develop serious conditions. Your doctor will prescribe you medicines that control the severity of your symptoms and advise you to avoid contact with the triggering agent. For further guidance, please consult your doctor.
- What are the most common food allergens?
Numerous food substances can lead to allergies, causing a wide variety of symptoms. However, the most common food allergens include the following:
- Egggs
- Fish, such as cod and flounder
- Crustacean shellfish
- Tree nuts
- Peanuts
- Wheat
- Soybeans
Please note that the food allergens are not limited to this list only.
The higher the value of IgE antibody detected, the greater is the probability that you have an allergy. However, a high value is not diagnostic; other tests must be performed to make an accurate diagnosis. Not all high values mean that the patient has an allergy. Similarly, not all low values equal to no allergy. Individuals may have false-positive or false-negative results.
Interpretation of the results:
<0.35- Negative
0.35-0.69 Equivocal
0.70-3.49 Positive
3.50-17.4 Positive
17.5-49.9 Strongly positive
50.0-99.9 Strongly positive
>100 Strongly positive
The level of IgE antibodies in serum is expressed in kU/L.
Some allergic reactions are mild, whilst others are serious and can have dire consequences. Getting tested is necessary for ruling out the causes of any abnormalities, which may be resolved within a few hours or, in some serious cases, last for years and require life-long treatment.
Getting tested is essential for the following reasons:
- Helps you and your doctor diagnose various allergies, infections, auto-immune disorders, cancers, metabolic disorders, anemia, etc.
- Regular check-up
- Diagnose conditions before they progress and prove to be fatal
- Plan treatment and evaluate the effectiveness of given therapy
