Allergen, Weed, Western Water Hemp (Amaranthus spp.) IgE
Also known as: WATERHEMP
Use
The Allergen, Weed, Western Water Hemp (Amaranthus spp.) IgE test is designed to measure specific Immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies to Western Water Hemp allergens. This quantification helps in the diagnosis of allergic reactions caused by exposure to Western Water Hemp. Elevated levels of specific IgE antibodies indicate sensitization and possibly an allergic response to this specific weed allergen. This test assists healthcare providers in the assessment and management of patients with suspected allergic rhinitis or other allergic conditions related to weed pollen exposure.
Special Instructions
Specimen collection involves a plain red or serum separator tube (SST). Serum should be separated from cells as soon as possible or within 2 hours of collection to ensure accurate results. For tests not performed at ARUP, separate specimens must be submitted for multiple tests as this test is not performed in-house. The serum must then be transferred to a standard ARUP transport tube for transport.
Limitations
The test has limitations as elevated IgE levels may be present due to allergen sensitization, which does not always correlate with clinical allergy symptoms. It may not distinguish between cross-reactivity with other similar pollens and specific reactions to Western Water Hemp. Hemolyzed, icteric, or lipemic specimens may affect the validity of results and are causes for rejection. Variability in IgE levels can also be influenced by external factors such as recent allergen exposure or treatment regimens.
New York Approved
Methodology
Immunoassay (ELISA)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 7400-5
Result Turnaround Time
3-6 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
0.5 mL
Minimum Volume
0.34 mL
Container
ARUP standard transport tube
Collection Instructions
Separate serum from cells ASAP or within 2 hours of collection.
Causes for Rejection
Hemolyzed, icteric, or lipemic specimens.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 1 month |
| Refrigerated | 1 month |
| Frozen | 1 year |