Allergy-Nuts Panel
50+ booked in last 3 daysNuts Allergy Test Overview
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. The Allergy-Nuts Panel is a blood test designed to identify allergies to a common group of nuts and nut-related foods. It measures the immune system's reaction (specifically IgE antibodies) to these substances. This test is crucial for diagnosing nut allergies, especially if you experience symptoms like hives, itching, swelling, wheezing, or other allergic reactions after consuming nuts. The panel tests for individual nuts like almonds, Brazil nuts, hazelnuts, peanuts, cashews, pecans, walnuts, pistachios, and even coconut, which is technically a fruit but can trigger reactions similar to tree nut allergies. By identifying specific nut allergies, this test helps individuals and their doctors develop safe food plans and avoid potential allergic reactions.
The Nuts Allergy Test, also known as the Allergy-Nuts Panel, is a diagnostic test that identifies allergies to common nuts and nut-related foods. This test measures the immune system's response by checking levels of IgE antibodies. It tests for reactions to various nuts including almonds, Brazil nuts, hazelnuts, peanuts, cashews, pecans, walnuts, pistachios, and coconut.
The test is vital for diagnosing nut allergies. It helps individuals and doctors develop safe eating plans to prevent allergic reactions.
Nut allergies can cause symptoms ranging from mild to severe. These include gastrointestinal issues such as diarrhoea and vomiting. Skin and respiratory symptoms may include itching, rashes, runny nose, sneezing, coughing, hives, and shortness of breath.
In severe cases, nut allergies may lead to anaphylactic shock, making accurate diagnosis essential for managing and treating the allergy effectively. The Nuts Allergy Test provides valuable information to help individuals navigate their dietary choices and maintain their overall health and well-being.
Written by: Dr.Shibani R, Medical Writer, Medical Affairs
Reasons for Undergoing the Nuts Allergy Test
There are several reasons why an individual may need to undergo the Nuts Allergy Test:
- Experiencing symptoms or allergic reactions after consuming nuts, such as gastrointestinal issues, skin reactions, or respiratory symptoms
- Suspicion of a nut allergy based on family history or personal medical history
- Developing a safe food plan to avoid potential allergic reactions
- Monitoring the progression or resolution of a known nut allergy over time
- Differentiating between a true nut allergy and other conditions with similar symptoms
List of Parameters Considered During the Nuts Allergy Test
The Nuts Allergy Test measures specific parameters to determine the presence and severity of a nut allergy:
- IgE Antibodies: These are specific antibodies produced by the immune system in response to allergens. High levels of IgE antibodies against specific nuts indicate an allergy to those nuts.
- Total IgE Levels: Measuring total IgE levels can provide additional context, although it is the specific IgE levels against individual nuts that are most relevant for diagnosing nut allergies.
Nuts Allergy Test Preparation
Preparing for the Nuts Allergy Test involves the following steps:
- Blood Sample Collection: A blood sample is collected after exposure to the allergens. A tourniquet (elastic band) is placed tightly on the upper arm, and the patient is asked to make a fist to help fill the veins with blood.
- Skin Disinfection: The skin is disinfected before the needle is inserted to collect the blood sample into a vacutainer.
- No Specific Dietary Restrictions: Generally, there are no specific dietary restrictions or fasting requirements for this test, but it is always best to follow the instructions provided by the healthcare provider or the laboratory conducting the test.
Nuts Allergy Test Results & Interpretation
The results of the Nuts Allergy Test indicate the presence and severity of an allergy to specific nuts:
- Positive Result: A positive result indicates that the person is allergic to the specific nut, confirmed by increased allergen-specific IgE levels.
- Negative Result: A negative result suggests that the person is not allergic to the tested nut, but other tests may be required for differential diagnosis if symptoms persist.
- Interpretation: The magnitude of the IgE levels can vary, and high levels (> 15 kU/L) are almost always diagnostic of an allergy. However, there is a 'grey area' where the results may not predict clinical reactivity accurately, emphasising the importance of medical history and clinical symptoms in interpretation.
Home Collection for Nuts Allergy Test Near You
Metropolis Healthcare provides a handy home collection service for the Nuts Allergy Test. This ensures comfort and safety for patients. A trained phlebotomist visits your home to collect the blood sample. They maintain high standards in sample handling and testing accuracy. This service lets individuals access quality diagnostics without compromising result reliability.
With timely and precise reports, patients can manage their nut allergies and overall health better. Metropolis Healthcare's commitment to accessible healthcare highlights its dedication to offering excellent diagnostic services right at your doorstep.
Allergy-Nuts Panel Price
Metropolis Healthcare is a leading diagnostics centre and pathology lab in India equipped with the latest state-of-the-art technologies that provides the Allergy-Nuts Panel with a clear pricing structure.
The Allergy-Nuts Panel Price in Mumbai is ₹ 6,615 .
We are committed to deliver accurate and quality results from the best labs in India with complete transparency regarding test cost and turnaround time. No matter where you are, we strive to offer patients high-quality service that is affordable and accessible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Nuts allergy test is done for suspected allergies due to commonly used nuts either consumed as a whole or used as an ingredient in cooking to determine the exact source causing it (allergen).
Nuts allergy test measures the IgE-mediated response to 9 commonly consumed nuts:
- Almond
- Brazil Nut
- Hazelnut
- Peanut
- Cashewnut
- Pecan Nut
- Walnut
- Pistachio
- Coconut
Total IgE levels are also measured.
Nuts 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.
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.
You should get the allergy-nuts panel test if you have symptoms or allergic reactions after eating nuts. These nuts may either be whole or used in food as part of the ingredient.
Since it is a food-related allergy, it commonly causes gastrointestinal symptoms like diarrhoea and vomiting, but at times mere exposure or consumption may even lead to other skin and respiratory-related symptoms like itching, rashes, running nose, sneezing, coughing, hives, and even shortness of breath. Certain severe cases may also lead to anaphylactic shock.
There are no specific preparations required for the test. However, it is recommended that you consult with your healthcare provider before taking the test, as they may have specific instructions or recommendations based on your individual medical history and current health status.
- Allergy IgE Test
- Nuts Allergy Test
The Nuts Allergy Test is a diagnostic test that measures your immune system's reaction to various nuts by assessing the levels of IgE antibodies against these nuts. It helps identify allergies to common nuts like almonds, Brazil nuts, hazelnuts, peanuts, cashews, pecans, walnuts, pistachios, and coconut.
Yes, home sample collection is available for the Nuts Allergy Test. A trained phlebotomist can visit your home to collect the blood sample, ensuring safety and comfort.
Normal levels for the Nuts Allergy Test are typically considered when the specific IgE antibody levels are below a certain threshold. High levels (> 15 kU/L) often indicate an allergy, while lower levels may suggest sensitisation but not necessarily an allergy.
The Nuts Allergy Test is used to diagnose and confirm allergies to various nuts. It helps you and your doctor develop safe food plans and avoid potential allergic reactions by identifying the specific nuts you are allergic to.
The testing frequency for the Nuts Allergy Test depends on your individual circumstances, such as changes in symptoms or exposure to new nuts. It is typically recommended when symptoms occur or if there is a suspicion of a new allergy.
The timing of the Nuts Allergy Test is not specific to any particular time of day. However, it should be done when symptoms are present or suspected and under the guidance of your healthcare provider.
Fasting is generally not required for the Nuts Allergy Test, but it is best to follow the specific instructions provided by your healthcare provider or the laboratory conducting the test to ensure accurate results.
Before the Nuts Allergy Test, ensure that you follow any specific instructions provided by your healthcare provider or laboratory, such as avoiding certain medications that might interfere with the test results. Inform them of any medications you are currently taking.
The parameters included in the Nuts Allergy Test are the levels of IgE antibodies against individual nuts like almonds, Brazil nuts, hazelnuts, peanuts, cashews, pecans, walnuts, pistachios, and coconut, as well as total IgE levels.
The Nuts Allergy Test should be done when you experience symptoms of a nut allergy or suspect an allergy after consuming nuts. Symptoms can include gastrointestinal issues, skin reactions, and respiratory problems.
The actual blood sample collection process for the Nuts Allergy Test is relatively quick and usually takes only a few minutes. However, the entire process, including preparation and waiting time, may take about 30 minutes to an hour.
Reports for the Nuts Allergy Test are typically available after 24 hours after the sample is collected and sent to the lab for processing. However, the exact turnaround time may vary depending on the lab and location.
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