Allergy Panel - Adult Screening - 3

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. These reactions normally do not occur in others. The substance causing the reaction is an allergen. Immunoglobin E is an antibody that the body produces in case of an allergic reaction. Total IgE test is a blood test used to measure the complete IgE levels in the blood, but it does not indicate what is the specific allergen causing the reaction. Allergy- adult panel 3 is a comprehensive screening that tests the body's reaction to 95 different allergens using MAST Blot technique. Based on the results the source of allergy/allergies is determined and the course of treatment is decided accordingly. Along with this the allergen-specific  IgE levels are also checked. 

How is an allergy developed in the body?

The body is designed in such a way that the immune system attacks anything that is foreign to the body. When the body is more sensitive to certain substances, they are perceived as dangerous. The immune system then produces IgE antibodies. They fight the threat in response to the foreign substance. These antibodies release a chemical called histamines. They cause allergic symptoms in the nose, throat, lungs, or on skin.

What are the symptoms of allergy?

Everyone's signs and symptoms of allergic reactions are different. However, the symptoms of an allergy depend on the type of allergen. They also depend on the severity of the condition.

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Swelling
• Hives
• Fatigue
• Runny nose
• Congestion
• Swollen eyes

Severe allergic reactions can cause a life-threatening condition called anaphylaxis. The symptoms include:

• Breathing difficulties
• Lightheadedness
• Loss of consciousness

Seek immediate medical attention, in case of any of the above anaphylactic symptoms. If the mild symptoms do not go away within a few days and are recurrent, it is ideal to consult the doctor.

What are the causes of allergies?

The cause of an allergy varies from person to person. Here is a list of a few allergens.

• Drugs: Penicillin, ibuprofen, aspirin, naproxen, etc.
• Food: Wheat, egg, milk, nuts, etc.
• Plants: Weeds, pollen, grass, and poison oak.
• Animal products: Cockroaches and pet dander.
• Other allergens: Mold, nickel, bees, mosquitoes, etc

What test is performed to detect allergies?

A total IgE test is a blood test. It is used to measure the total amount of IgE present in the blood. But it does not pinpoint which specific allergen is causing the reaction.

In general, the blood contains a small amount of IgE. High levels of IgE indicate that the body overreacts to the allergens.

How is the allergy-adult panel 3 test performed?

The allergy-adult panel 3 test requires a blood sample. A tourniquet (elastic) band is placed tightly on the upper arm. The patient is then asked to make a fist. This helps the blood to build up and fill the veins to draw blood. The skin is then disinfected before the needle is inserted. Then the blood sample is slowly collected in a vacutainer.

What do allergy-adult panel 3 test results indicate?

A positive result of an allergen indicates that the person is allergic to it. Higher allergen-specific IgE levels further confirm that. Quite frequently, more than one allergen may test positive. The further treatment course is decided based on the results.

Additional testing may be necessary for a precise diagnosis. This depends on the symptom, age, environmental allergens, and region-specific allergens.

In the case of a negative result, other tests may be required for differential diagnosis.

Written by: Dr.Shibani R, Medical Writer, Medical Affairs