Milk

Casandra

Casandra Test Code LC94465Version 1 (DRAFT)

Performing Lab

Lab LabcorpLab Test ID 602453CPT Code 86003

Also known as: Cow's Milk

Clinical Use

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Use

The Milk test is designed to measure the levels of specific IgE antibodies in the blood, which are associated with allergic responses to cow's milk. This test is useful for the diagnosis of milk allergy, which can manifest as a range of symptoms from mild oral allergy syndrome to severe anaphylaxis. By identifying the presence and quantity of IgE antibodies specific to milk proteins, clinicians can evaluate the allergic sensitization status of the patient and guide appropriate allergy management strategies, which may include dietary modifications and emergency preparedness plans for potential allergen exposures.

Special Instructions

Patients should ensure proper specimen collection in a red-top or gel-barrier tube. Ensure the specimen is stored appropriately during transport to maintain stability. Additional time might be required for confirmatory testing or reflex tests based on initial results. Testing schedules are subject to variation, so coordination with the lab for pickup is recommended to meet turnaround times.

Limitations

The Milk IgE test is limited by its specificity for IgE antibodies, meaning it can confirm an allergic sensitization but not a clinical allergy on its own. False positives can occur in the absence of clinical symptoms, and further clinical evaluation and potentially an oral food challenge may be necessary for a definitive diagnosis. Additionally, this test does not detect non-IgE mediated food allergies, and variations in IgE levels can occur due to other factors such as cross-reactivity with IgE to other allergens. The test is most useful when interpreted in the context of a comprehensive clinical evaluation.

Test Details