The specific allergen is determined with the ImmunoCAP™ method of Phadia Laboratory Systems (ThermoFisher Scientific).
Determining specific IgE antibodies is used to diagnose allergic diseases and identify allergens responsible for allergies and anaphylactic reactions.
Determining specific IgE antibodies is also used to confirm sensitization before initiating immunotherapy and investigate allergic reactions to particular allergens, such as insect poisons and drugs.
Specific information
- Specific allergen: rGal d 2 (Ovalbumin)
- Allergen code: D232
- Allergen group: Food
More information
The clinical manifestations of immediate type hypersensitivity (allergy) are caused by the release of certain substances such as histamine, leukotrienes, and prostaglandins from immunoglobulin E (IgE) sensitized cells (mast cells and basophils) upon interaction with the allergen. A blood test for specific IgE antibodies indicates the immune response to the allergen.
The allergens selected for the test depend on the patient's age, history of exposure to specific allergens, time of year, and clinical manifestations. In people with a predisposition to allergic disease, the sequence of sensitization and clinical manifestations are usually as follows: eczema and respiratory manifestations (rhinitis and bronchospasm) in infants and children under 5 years due to food allergies (usually milk, eggs, and proteins), followed by respiratory manifestations (rhinitis and asthma) in older children and adults due to sensitivity to inhaled allergens (usually dust mites, mold, and pollen).
Specific IgE antibodies in the serum (class 2 or higher) indicate an increased likelihood of allergic disease. It identifies allergens that may be responsible for the onset of signs and symptoms of an allergy.
However, patients who do not display clinically significant sensitivity to allergens may have measurable serum IgE antibody levels. Because of this, a patient’s overall clinical picture should be considered when interpreting serum IgE antibody level results.
