Allergy - GIT Panel Test

An allergy is a hypersensitivity disorder of the immune system that causes undesirable reactions to certain substances like food, dust, pollen, drugs or even animal dander. These reactions normally do not occur in others. The substance causing the reaction is an allergen. Immunoglobin E is an antibody that the body produces in case of an allergic reaction. Total IgE test is a blood test used to measure the complete IgE levels in the blood, but it does not indicate what is the specific allergen causing the reaction. Allergy-GIT panel is a food allergy screening that tests the body's reaction to 32 commonly consumed food items using the ImmunoCAP technique. Based on the results the source of allergy/allergies is determined and the course of treatment is decided accordingly. Along with this the allergen specific IgE levels and are also checked. 

Allergies usually result when a person reacts to environmental elements that are typically safe for most people. The allergy-causing elements are called allergens. Allergens are present in dust particles, animals, pollen, insects, ticks, mould, food, and some drugs. An allergy is a material producing the reaction. The body creates the antibody immunoglobin E (IgE) in the event of an allergic reaction.

The common symptoms of allergies include:

• Allergic rhinitis (hay fever) in the nose.
• Conjunctivitis in the eyes.
• Skin diseases such as hives (urticaria) or eczema.
• Lung disease leads to asthma.

What is an allergy-GIT panel test?

Using the ImmunoCAP method, the Allergy-GIT panel test analyses the body's reactivity to 32 commonly ingested food items for food allergies. The source of the allergy or allergies is identified using the results, and the appropriate course of therapy is chosen. Additionally, the IgE levels specific to each allergen are measured.

This panel of tests aids in determining whether specific food groups cause allergic reactions that result in allergies. To check for an allergic reaction to different food items, it identifies specific IgE antibodies in your blood.

Who should do an allergy-GIT panel test?

People who experience the following symptoms should do the test:

• Persistent coughing.
• A runny nose or sneezing.
• Feeling unwell.
• Ache or tightness around your cheekbones, eyes, or forehead.
• Swollen eyes, lips, mouth, or throat.
• Abdominal pain.

Anaphylaxis is a rare but severe allergic reaction that needs to be treated right away. People with the following sign and symptoms of anaphylaxis should do the allergy GIT panel test:

• Hives, itching, and flushed or pale skin.
• Low blood pressure (hypotension).
• Breathing difficulties and wheezing brought on by tongue or throat swelling and airway constriction.
• A fast and erratic pulse.
• Shortness of breath.
• Chest pain.
• Swelling of the airways to the lungs.
• Diarrhoea, vomiting, or nausea.
• Fainting or dizziness.

Written by: Dr.Shibani R, Medical Writer, Medical Affairs