Allergen, Individual-Animal Dog Dander Serum

• Establishing a diagnosis of an allergy to dog dander
• Identifying allergens responsible for allergic disease and/or anaphylactic episode
• To confirm sensitization prior to beginning immunotherapy

Individuals may order a Dog Hair and Dander Allergy Blood Test if they have experienced symptoms related to a dog allergy. Common signs or symptoms of a dog allergy may include the following:

• Sneezing
• Nausea or vomiting
• Itching or hives
• Itchy or watery eyes
• Inflammation of the skin where a cat has scratched, bitten, or licked
• Congestion
• Trouble breathing or wheezing
• Light-headedness

A severe, possibly life-threatening allergic reaction known as anaphylaxis may occur in some cases. An anaphylactic response requires immediate medical attention. Signs or symptoms of anaphylaxis may include:

• Rapid or increased pulse
• Swollen throat or lump, making it difficult to breathe
• Low blood pressure

Extreme dizziness or loss of consciousness

The Dog Hair and Dander Allergy Blood Test measures the IgE antibody levels in the blood to detect a dog allergy.

This test requires a blood sample. A tourniquet (elastic) band is placed tightly on the upper arm. The patient is then asked to make a fist. This helps in the build-up of blood filling the veins. The skin is disinfected before needle insertion and the blood sample is collected in vacutainer.

Negative: < 0.1 KAU/L

Positive: >= 0.1 KAU/L

Detection of IgE antibodies indicates an increased likelihood of allergy to dog dander that may be responsible for eliciting signs and symptoms. A negative result indicates that the symptoms are not due to dog dander allergies and other differential diagnoses must be considered.

Associated Tests:

Allergy - Adult (Comprehensive) Panel 

Allergy Screening