Description

The Food Allergy Comprehensive IgE Blood Test is a diagnostic tool used to measure immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies in your blood in response to a variety of common food allergens. This test helps identify foods that may be triggering allergic reactions, which can contribute to chronic symptoms such as digestive issues, skin reactions, respiratory problems, or systemic inflammation.

Purpose of the Test:

  • To diagnose food allergies by detecting elevated levels of IgE antibodies specific to certain foods.
  • To pinpoint allergenic foods that may be causing symptoms such as hives, swelling, gastrointestinal distress, or asthma.
  • To assist in developing a targeted dietary and treatment plan by identifying specific allergens.

What the Test Includes:

This panel tests IgE antibody response to the following foods:

  • Beef IgE
  • Cocoa IgE
  • Corn IgE
  • Crab IgE
  • Egg White IgE
  • Egg Yolk IgE
  • Oat IgE
  • Peanut IgE
  • Pecan Nut IgE
  • Pork IgE
  • Rice IgE
  • Shrimp IgE
  • Soybean IgE
  • Tomato IgE
  • Wheat IgE
  • Milk IgE
  • Total Immunoglobulin E (IgE): Measures overall IgE levels in the blood, which can indicate general allergic sensitivity.

How the Test Works:

  1. Blood Sample Collection:
  2. A sample of blood is taken, typically from a vein in the arm, and analyzed in a lab.
  3. IgE Antibody Measurement:
  4. The lab checks for specific IgE antibodies against the listed foods. Elevated IgE levels indicate a likely allergy to that particular food.
  5. Result Interpretation:
  • Low/Normal IgE: Indicates a low likelihood of an allergy to that food.
  • Elevated IgE: Suggests a possible allergic reaction, with severity depending on IgE levels and clinical symptoms.

Fasting Not Required:

  • There is no need to fast before this test. You can eat and drink normally prior to the blood draw.

Conclusion:

The Food Allergy Comprehensive IgE Blood Test is a valuable tool for identifying food allergies and guiding dietary adjustments. By testing for a wide range of common food allergens and total IgE levels, it supports more precise diagnosis and better management of food-related allergic reactions.