3gAllergy Specific IgE Universal Milk

OVERVIEW

What is allergen-specific immunoglobulin E (IgE) test?

A test which is used to measure various IgE antibody levels in the blood. Antibodies are released by the immune system when the body needs to protect against viruses, bacteria & allergens. IgE antibody is usually present in small quantities in blood, however, when the body overreacts to allergens then it is found in higher amounts in the body. IgE antibodies can vary depending upon against which allergen it is reacting to. This test helps measure IgE antibodies to 19 of the most allergenic foods.

What is 3g allergy-specific IgE universal milk lab test?

This test is indicated in case of cow’s milk allergy which is the most common allergy in first year of life. The cow’s milk allergy is IgE mediated i.e. IgE allergy antibodies are responsible for the allergic reaction to the milk. The causal allergens present in milk are caseins and proteins in lactoserum (beta-lactoglobulin, alpha-lactoalbumin). The allergic reaction starts affecting skin, gastrointestinal & respiratory system, and severe anaphylaxis (severe allergic reaction) can occur. The test helps measure and identify the cow’s milk specific IgE in the blood.

Why is 3g allergy-specific IgE universal milk lab test done?

The test is done:

• As it establishes a diagnosis to an allergy to cow’s milk

•It defines the allergen causing signs and symptoms of allergy

•Identifies allergen responsible for allergic disease

•Helps confirm sensitization before the beginning of immunotherapy.

•Investigates specificity of allergic reactions to drugs, insect venom allergens, or chemical allergens

• Firstly, a blood sample is taken by inserting needle in vein in arm. In case of babies, the health care professional pricks baby’s heel with tiny needle.
• The sample collected in air-tight vial/syringe or test tube is sent to the laboratory
• The technician then performs allergen specific IgE test on the sample and looks for & measures allergen specific IgE milk antibodies.

1. Is fasting before taking IgE test required?

The child undergoing the test should be able to eat normally unless directed otherwise by the doctor. Also inform doctor of any medicines that the child is taking as they may affect the test results.

2. What is the meaning of positive IgE test?

The elevated level of total IgE shows that allergic process is likely present.

3. How are IgE test results interpreted?

The interpretation can be read like:

• Positive result means sensitization to allergen
• Indicated level of IgE does not always correlate with severity or extent of symptoms
• Normal IgE level doesn’t exclude allergic disorders
• The result can be misleading

4. What is normal range for IgE antibody?

They may range from 150 to 1000 UI/ml. But mostly the acceptable limit is b/w 150 and 300 UI/ml.

5. What is an efficient treatment option for cow’s milk allergy?

Its best treatment is elimination diet and using adequate substitution formulas. In elimination diet also include i.e. avoid milk from other mammals like sheep, goat etc.

INTERPRETATIONS:

If your total IgE levels are higher than normal, it likely means you have some kind of allergy. But it does not reveal what you are allergic to. A specific IgE test will help identify your particular allergy. If your results indicate an allergy, your health care provider may refer you to an allergy specialist or recommend a treatment plan.

Your treatment plan will depend on the type and severity of your allergy. People at risk for anaphylactic shock, a severe allergic reaction that can cause death, need to take extra care to avoid the allergy-causing substance. They may need to carry an emergency epinephrine treatment with them at all times.

REFERENCE RANGE:

They can range from 150 to 1,000 UI/ml, but the usually accepted upper limit is between 150 and 300 UI/ml

You get tested for allergen specific IgE antibodies when you suspect that a food is responsible for causing allergic reaction and symptoms like hives, stuffy/itchy nose, watery eyes, vomiting, diarrhea (loose motions), stomach cramps, shortness of breath/wheezing, and angioedema/swelling. The circulating antibodies in blood affects every individual differently and therefore its identification is necessary before any immunotherapy is started. Another advantage of this test is that IgE allergic response initiates an immediate-hypersensitivity to a substance. Therefore, it becomes easier for patients & clinicians to identify food causing an immediate response.