Allergy Panel - Asthma / Rhinitis Comprehensive

Asthma allergy test is done in suspected inhalant allergies causing asthma or rhinitis like symptoms for determining the exact source causing it (allergen). Since it is an inhalant allergy, it commonly causes respiratory symptoms like running nose, sneezing, coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath but may even lead to other skin related symptoms like: Itching, watering of eyes, rashes, and hives. Certain severe cases may also lead to anaphylactic shock. Based on these results further specific testing is recommended. It is often done for diagnosis when the cause for asthma or rhinitis is unknown. 

Asthma allergy test measures the IgE mediated response to 19 different types of inhalant allergens like house dust, pollen, animal dander and insects. Total IgE levels are also measured. Further tests to a specific allergen will help in further diagnosis.

Asthma 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.

If results are positive, it may indicate that the patient has an allergy to one or more of the allergens tested for.

• Positive results for a specific allergen may suggest that the allergen is contributing to the patient's symptoms.
• The healthcare provider may recommend measures to reduce exposure to the allergen, such as using allergen-proof bedding and vacuuming regularly with a HEPA filter.
• If a patient tests positive for allergies to a specific food protein, the healthcare provider may recommend avoiding that food.

If test results are negative, it could indicate that the patient has no allergy to the allergens tested for or the IgE levels are not high enough to detect.

• The negative results do not rule out the possibility of an allergy to other allergens not included in the test.
• The healthcare provider may recommend other diagnostic tests to confirm the absence of an allergy or to identify other potential causes of the symptoms.

It may be ordered for individuals who have symptoms consistent with asthma and/or rhinitis. Patients who have received a diagnosis of asthma or rhinitis and are not responding to treatment as expected may also benefit from the test. It can help identify specific allergens that may exacerbate their symptoms and guide treatment decisions.

There are generally no specific preparations required. The test involves a simple blood draw and can be done in a healthcare provider's office or at a laboratory. However, it's important to avoid certain medications, like antihistamines, which can interfere with allergy testing and should be avoided for several days before the test, if possible.

This test has some limitations and cannot confirm a diagnosis of asthma or rhinitis, predict the severity of symptoms, or how a patient will respond to treatment. Additionally, it can't detect food allergies, skin allergies, or some other types of allergies.

While chronic rhinitis is usually not serious, it can impact your daily life. The easiest method to cure chronic rhinitis is to avoid its triggers. If this isn't possible, certain drugs, such as OTC and prescription nasal sprays and decongestants, may help with your symptoms.

Allergen-Specific IgE Blood Test

ImmunoCAP Allergy Panel

Allergic Rhinitis Panel

Allergen Profile Test