Allergy - Trees Pollen Panel

Pollen allergy test is done in suspected inhalant allergies due to pollen from trees 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. 

Pollen allergy test measures the IgE mediated response to pollen from  4 different trees. Total IgE levels are also measured. Further tests to a specific allergen will help in further diagnosis.

The allergy - trees pollen panel test is a great way to determine whether a certain type of tree pollen is an allergen, and it can also help in the diagnosis of a specific allergy. The test uses IgE-mediated response tests to measure the severity of an allergy to pollen from 4 different trees. The total IgE levels are also measured so that any further testing for a specific allergen can be done with greater accuracy.

Pollen 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.

Anyone experiencing one or more of the following symptoms should undergo an allergy - trees pollen panel test:

• Itching
• Runny nose
• Sneezing
• Coughing
• Shortness of breath
• Hives
• Rashes

A blood sample after exposure to the allergens is required. First, the area where the needle will be inserted to collect the blood sample will be disinfected. Then, the fist needs to be clenched so that the veins are easier to find and measure. Finally, to collect the blood sample in a vacutainer, a tourniquet will be wrapped around the upper arm and pulled until the band starts to feel tight. This will help the blood build up and fill your veins, making it easier to collect the sample.

The best thing to do in such a case is to avoid exposure to or contact with it as much as possible. Anti-allergen medication can help to neutralise its effect in case of exposure or contact.

IgE stands for Immunoglobin E, which is an antibody that helps the body fight against particular allergens. It is a type of protein.

ImmunoCAP is a reliable and accurate technique for evaluating allergen-specific IgE levels, making it an ideal choice for determining whether a person is allergic to certain substances. ImmunoCAP offers fast and easy results, so it enables getting back to daily life more quickly. It offers ideal reliability, reproducibility, and good matching with Standard Penetration Test (SPT) results.

Anaphylaxis is an allergic reaction that can happen very quickly, and it can lead to several dangerous symptoms, including a rapid heart rate, a skin rash, vomiting and nausea. Any type of reaction where the airways close up requires immediate medical help.

The most common causes of tree pollen allergies include birch, elm, cedar and oak trees.

Tree Pollen allergy