Allergy Blood Test
Explanation
An allergy blood test measures immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies. Total IgE measures all IgE, while specific IgE tests the response to a named allergen.
What does an allergy blood test measure?
Immunoglobulin E, shortened to IgE, is an antibody involved in allergic reactions. A total IgE test measures all IgE in the blood. A specific IgE test looks for IgE linked to one named substance, such as a particular food or pollen.
How is this different from a skin test?
Both methods can investigate allergy, but they use different samples. A blood test measures antibodies in a blood sample. An allergy skin test places a small amount of a possible allergen on or into the skin and checks for a local reaction.
What does a positive result mean?
A high total IgE result can suggest an allergy but cannot show which allergen is responsible. A positive specific IgE result means the immune system has made IgE that recognises the tested substance. This is called sensitisation, but exposure to the substance may still cause no symptoms. False-positive results can occur.
Can the result predict severity?
No. The amount of specific IgE does not show how severe a future reaction would be. False-negative results are also possible, though they are less common. Results are interpreted with symptoms, exposure history, and other assessment.
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