Allergy Panel - Asthma / Rhinitis Comprehensive With Monitoring 4

It 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 in severe cases of anaphylaxis for diagnosis when the cause for asthma or rhinitis is unknown. Along with this the tryptase and ECP levels show the severity of allergy.

It measures the IgE mediated response to 29 different types of inhalant allergens like house dust, pollen, animal dander and insects. Total IgE levels, Tryptase and ECP levels are also measured. Further tests to a specific allergen will help in further diagnosis.

This 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. 

The Rhinitis Allergy Test uses the Enzyme Assay Method on a blood sample. The skin and needle are first cleaned with alcohol to sterilize them. The veins are then made apparent by wrapping an elastic band crookedly around the elbow. After injecting the needle into the vein, blood is drawn into the tube that is linked to the needle. To regulate and steady blood flow, the elastic band is unwound and cotton is placed against the injection site. Your name is written on the tube's seal, and the sample is delivered to the lab for testing

Positive result to an allergen indicates that the person is allergic to it. Increased allergen-specific IgE levels ECP count 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. 

High tryptase levels indicate anaphylaxis or abnormal activity of the mast cells.Negative result may require other tests for differential diagnosis.

A significant risk factor for airway inflammation or rhinitis is a previous history of allergies. Your risk of developing asthma is also increased if you suffer from seasonal allergies or other allergies.

If you experience signs of an allergic disorder, such as,

• recurring or persistent itching.
• eczema.
• watery eyes.
• sneezing.
• coughing.
• if a parasitic infection is suspected by your doctor.

Before the test, no extra preparation is needed. The doctor will first look at your symptoms before making recommendations for what you should and should not do. For a better outcome, one should carefully follow the doctor's instructions. If instructions are not followed, symptoms may become worse and the test's accuracy may change. Furthermore, since the test involves drawing blood, comfortable attire should be worn. The doctor will find it simple to take a sample of blood.

This test cannot tell you if your asthma was triggered by an allergen or something else.

Asthma Panel

Rhinitis Panel