Allergen, Food, Tea
Also known as: TEA
Use
The Allergen, Food, Tea test measures the presence of tea-specific IgE antibodies in a patient's serum, helping to diagnose potential food allergies associated with tea proteins. The test results, presented in kilounits per liter (kU/L), indicate the probability of an IgE-mediated clinical reaction and are crucial in assessing the patient's risk of allergic reactions to tea. This is particularly useful for individuals with suspected tea allergies who have shown symptoms such as hives, itching, or respiratory issues upon tea consumption.
Special Instructions
Ensure serum is separated from cells as soon as possible or within two hours of collection. The serum should then be transferred to an ARUP Standard Transport Tube. When ordering multiple allergens, refer to the Allergen Specimen Collection Instructions available on ARUP's website. Multiple patient encounters should be avoided to prevent batch testing issues.
Limitations
The test measures specific IgE levels, but these concentrations may not correlate directly with the degree of clinical response. Additionally, concentrations below 0.34 kU/L are of uncertain clinical relevance, making clinical correlation essential. Negative results do not rule out a tea allergy or potential anaphylactic reactions. Interpretation of results must be done within the context of the patient's clinical history and in vivo reactivity.
New York Approved
Methodology
Immunoassay (Fluorescent Enzyme Immunoassay)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 6264-6
Result Turnaround Time
1-3 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
0.5 mL
Minimum Volume
0.25 mL
Container
ARUP Standard Transport Tube
Collection Instructions
Separate serum from cells ASAP or within 2 hours of collection.
Patient Preparation
Multiple patient encounters should be avoided.
Causes for Rejection
Hemolyzed, icteric, or lipemic specimens.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 48 hours |
| Refrigerated | 2 weeks |
| Frozen | 1 year |