Description

The Childhood Allergy IgE Blood Test is a blood test designed to measure a child's IgE antibodies in response to a panel of common allergens. This test helps identify if the child is allergic to certain substances and can provide insights into their immune system's sensitivity to various allergens. If a positive reaction is detected for allergens like milk, egg, or peanut, the test automatically performs reflex testing on specific components of those allergens to offer a more detailed understanding of the allergy and its potential triggers.

Purpose of the Test:

The test is used to diagnose IgE-mediated allergies, which occur when the immune system reacts abnormally to certain proteins in foods, environmental allergens, or other substances. The test helps to identify the specific allergens causing allergic reactions in children, leading to more targeted treatment and management strategies.

Common Allergens Tested:

This panel includes a variety of airborne, food, and dust mite allergens:

Mold Spores:

  1. Alternaria (Alternata) IgE
  2. Cladosporium Herbarum IgE

Animal Dander:

  1. German Cockroach IgE
  2. Cat Epithelium IgE
  3. Dog Dander IgE

Dust Mites:

  1. Dermatophagoides Farinae IgE
  2. Dermatophagoides Pteronyssinus IgE

Food Allergens:

  1. Cod Fish IgE
  2. Shrimp IgE
  3. Soybean IgE
  4. Walnut IgE
  5. Wheat IgE
  6. Peanut IgE (with reflex testing for peanut components)
  7. Milk IgE (with reflex testing)
  8. Egg White IgE (with reflex testing)

What is Reflex Testing?

  • Reflex testing is performed when a positive result for certain allergens, such as peanut, egg, or milk, is found. This additional testing analyzes the specific components of the allergen (e.g., specific proteins in peanuts) to understand which parts of the food are causing the allergic response. Reflex testing provides a more in-depth picture of the allergy, helping determine the severity and which specific proteins are responsible.

How the Test Works:

  1. Blood Sample Collection:
  2. A small blood sample is drawn, typically from a vein in the arm. The sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis.
  3. IgE Measurement:
  4. The test measures IgE antibodies specific to the allergens included in the panel. Elevated IgE levels indicate an allergic reaction to that allergen.
  5. Reflex Testing:
  6. If high IgE levels are detected for allergens like peanut, milk, or egg, reflex testing will be performed to identify the specific components of these allergens responsible for the immune system’s response.
  7. Result Interpretation:
  • Low or No IgE Levels: If IgE levels are low or absent for a particular allergen, the child is not allergic to that substance.
  • Elevated IgE Levels: Elevated levels of IgE suggest an allergy to that particular allergen, and reflex testing will provide more specific details about which proteins are involved.

Fasting Not Required:

  • There is no fasting required before the test, so your child can eat and drink normally prior to the blood draw.

Conclusion:

The Childhood Allergy IgE Blood Test is an important tool for identifying allergens that may cause allergic reactions in children. By measuring IgE antibodies to a range of allergens, the test provides valuable information for diagnosing allergies and guiding treatment decisions. Reflex testing for specific components, especially in common allergens like peanut, milk, and egg, helps provide a deeper understanding of the allergy, making it easier to manage and avoid allergic triggers.