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An allergy blood test is a medical test that measures the level of specific antibodies in the blood to determine if a person is allergic to certain substances. The test is also known as an allergy serum test or an IgE test (immunoglobulin E test).
At the Arizona Allergy Associates bloot test, a healthcare provider will draw a small amount of blood from a person’s arm and send it to a laboratory for analysis. The lab will then test the blood for the presence of immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies, which are produced by the immune system in response to allergens.
What are common allergens identified in an allergy blood test?
The following are some of the most common allergens that can be tested for in an allergy blood test:
- Pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds
- Dust mites
- Animal dander (from cats, dogs, and other pets)
- Mold spores
- Foods (such as peanuts, shellfish, milk, and eggs)
- Insect venom (from bee stings or other insect bites)
- Latex
- Medications (such as penicillin or aspirin)
- Cockroaches
The specific allergens tested for in a blood test will depend on the individual’s symptoms, medical history, and suspected allergens. It is important to note that a blood test alone is not enough to diagnose an allergy. Other factors such as a physical examination, medical history, and allergy testing (such as skin prick tests) may also be needed for an accurate diagnosis.
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What are the allergy blood test types?
There are several types of allergy blood tests, including:
- IgE-specific blood test: This test measures the levels of immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies in the blood in response to specific allergens.
- Total IgE blood test: This test measures the total amount of IgE antibodies in the blood, which can indicate whether a person has an increased risk of developing allergic reactions.
It is important to note that the type of allergy blood test recommended by the doctor may depend on the individual’s symptoms, medical history, and suspected allergens.
When is allergy blood test needed?
An allergy blood test may be needed when a person is experiencing symptoms that suggest an allergic reaction and the allergen causing the reaction is not clear. An allergy blood test can help identify the specific allergen triggering the allergic reaction.
Some common symptoms of an allergic reaction include:
- Hives or rash
- Swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat
- Difficulty breathing or wheezing
- Abdominal pain, diarrhea, or vomiting
- Itchy or watery eyes
- Runny or congested nose
- Sneezing
If a person experiences any of these symptoms, particularly if they occur repeatedly, they should speak with their doctor. The doctor can recommend whether an allergy blood test is necessary or whether other testing, such as skin prick testing, may be more appropriate.
The results of the test can help healthcare providers identify the specific allergen that is causing a person’s symptoms, such as sneezing, itching, or hives.
An allergy blood test is often used when a skin prick test (SPT) is not possible or practical, such as when a person has severe eczema or is taking medications that interfere with SPT results. It may also be used to monitor the effectiveness of allergy treatment over time.