Comprehensive Adult Allergy Test

This is a comprehensive allergy panel done when localizing symptoms and cause of allergy is not clear.  Common allergy symptoms are: Itching, running nose, sneezing, coughing, diarrhoea, hives
Certain severe cases may also lead to anaphylactic shock. 
The test is used to screen for 28 possible allergies due to pollen, animal dander, trees, grass, weed, mite, insects etc. 
Based on these results further specific testing is recommended. 

Allergy comprehensive profile test measures the IgE mediated response to 28 different inhalant and environmental allergens. Total IgE levels are also measured. Further tests to a specific allergen will help in further diagnosis.

Allergy comprehensive profile test requires a blood sample post exposure to the allergens. 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. 

During the test, the lab technician will disinfect a spot on your upper arm. He will ask you to make a fist. This will allow blood to build up in the vein. Then they will insert a small needle into the vein and collect blood in a tube attached to the needle. Finally, they will stick a bandage on the spot. They will then send the blood sample to the laboratory for analysis. You may feel a slight pain for a few minutes at the site of the needle prick.

Positive result to an allergen indicates that the person is allergic to it. Increased IgE levels further confirms that. The further treatment course is decided based on the results. Based on the symptom, age, environmental allergens, and region wise allergens further testing may be required for specific diagnosis. 
Negative result may require other tests for differential diagnosis. 

A high Total IgE level or positive result indicates an allergy.

Higher Total IgE levels indicate multiple substances that you may be allergic to.

A negative result means you do not have an allergy. However, it is possible to have negative results even if you are allergic to a substance.

Alternately, it is also possible to have positive results even if you are not allergic to a substance. It is, therefore, crucial to consult a doctor or an allergy specialist.

This is a simple blood test. It takes just a few minutes. It does not require any preparation. Your doctor might advise you to stop taking antihistamines before the test. This is because these medications can interfere with the results.

Histamines are chemicals created by your immune system. They are released in your body if it faces danger from an allergen. They can cause symptoms of sneezing, wheezing, coughing, itchy skin, watery eyes, nausea and vomiting. Antihistamines are drugs that work against histamines. They help treat the symptoms of the allergy.

Foods that cause allergies are,

• Peanuts
• Fish
• Shellfish
• Wheat
• Soy
• Eggs
• Milk
• Nuts, like almonds, walnuts, pine nuts
• Spices like coriander and garlic
• Meat
• Corn
• Seeds like sunflower, sesame, and poppy

If you have an allergy, you must take the following precautions:

• Avoid allergens that cause a severe reaction
• Take the antihistamines prescribed by your doctor. These medications help reduce allergic symptoms.
• Ask your doctor about allergy shots. Your doctor may recommend taking these shots for three to five years. These shots help provide lasting relief from allergic symptoms.
• If you are at risk of anaphylaxis, always carry an epinephrine injection for an emergency.
• Carry a medical card and your allergy-related information. This will help others know about your allergy, and they will be able to help you in your time of need.

IgE

Specific IgE