Allergy-Grass Panel

Grass allergy test is done in suspected inhalant allergies due to grass commonly seen in certain regions for determining the exact source causing it (allergen). Since it is an inhalant allergy, it commonly causes respiratory symptoms like running nose, sneezing, coughing, shortness of breath ,but may even lead to other skin related symptoms like: Itching, rashes, and hives. Certain severe cases may also lead to anaphylactic shock. Based on these results further specific testing is recommended. 

Your healthcare practitioner may recommend an allergy-grass panel if you have allergy symptoms that bother you. You may also need to undertake the test if you have asthma symptoms. The test can identify which type of grass triggers and worsens your asthma or bring forth an asthma attack.

If you have had an anaphylactic shock, you may require to undergo this test. Anaphylaxis is a potentially fatal condition. In this condition, you can develop hives. breathing difficulties, swelling and sudden blood pressure drop.

Grass allergy test measures the IgE mediated response to 4 different varieties of grass. Total IgE levels are also measured. Further tests to a specific allergen will help in further diagnosis.

Clinical manifestation of allergy releases protein - immunoglobulin E (IgE). The allergy-grass panel test measures the IgE response to four varieties of grass. The test also measures total IgE levels. Depending on your test results, you may require additional tests to identify a specific allergen.

Grass allergy 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. 

An allergy grass panel test requires a blood sample following exposure to the grass pollens. 

The technician will collect the blood sample from the vein in your arm. They will place an elastic band around your arm to create a tourniquet. You will then have to make a fist. It will build up the blood flow to your veins. It will allow easy access to your blood. 

They will then disinfect your skin with an alcohol rub. They will then insert a needle to draw the blood. Finally, they will collect the blood sample in a vial.

Positive result to an allergen indicates that the person is allergic to it. Increased allergen-specific IgE levels further confirms that. Very often the test may be positive for more than one allergen as well. 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.

The IgE levels indicate whether you have an allergic reaction or not. 

Increased IgE levels are considered a positive result. IgE levels more than 0.70 kU/L are positive, while those above 17.5 kU/L are strongly positive.

Reaction to a specific allergen indicates that you are allergic to it. Often the reaction may be positive for more than one allergen. A positive response may warrant the need for additional tests for specific diagnoses. 

In some cases, your doctor may prescribe medications to reduce the immune response. Another option is immunotherapy. In immunotherapy, you will receive shots with a small dosage of the allergen over a period to develop resistance and immunity. Life-threatening allergies may require a prescription for emergency epinephrine.

If the IgE levels are below 0.35kU/L the test may be negative. Sometimes the result may be negative results but you may still have an allergy. It happens if your immune system does not respond to the allergen. You may require other tests to confirm the diagnosis.

As grass allergy is a result of either direct contact or inhalation of the pollen. They are common during the early summer. They can result in symptoms such as runny nose, sneezing, coughing, and shortness of breath. Other skin-related symptoms include itching, rashes, and hives. If your healthcare practitioner suspects you have an allergy to grass pollen, they may recommend an allergy-grass panel test. The test can determine the exact cause of the allergy. 

Your doctor will check for your medical history and medications you may be taking before the allergy test. As certain medicines can interfere with the test, you will have to avoid them prior to the test. These medicines include:

• Antihistamines
• Heartburn medicines like famotidine
• Benzodiazepines
• Antidepressants, such as amitriptyline (Elavil)
• Corticosteroids

Exposure to the allergen for the test may give rise to mild swelling, itching and redness in the skin. You may also have small bumps appearing on the skin. Topical steroid creams can clear up these symptoms. If these symptoms persist, consult your doctor.

Also Known As

Allergy IgE Test

Grass Allergy Test