Alpha-Lactalbumin, IgE, Serum
Use
The test is useful for establishing a diagnosis of an allergy to alpha-lactalbumin, defining the allergen responsible for eliciting signs and symptoms, and identifying allergens responsible for allergic responses and/or anaphylactic episodes. It can confirm sensitization prior to beginning immunotherapy and investigate the specificity of allergic reactions to insect venom allergens, drugs, or chemical allergens.
Special Instructions
Testing for IgE antibodies is not useful in patients previously treated with immunotherapy to determine if residual clinical sensitivity exists, or in patients in whom the medical management does not depend upon identification of allergen specificity.
Limitations
Some individuals with clinically insignificant sensitivity to allergens may have measurable levels of IgE antibodies in serum. False-positive results for IgE antibodies may occur in patients with markedly elevated serum IgE (>2500 kU/L) due to nonspecific binding to allergen solid phases. Test results must be interpreted in the clinical context.
FDA ApprovedNew York Approved
Methodology
Immunoassay (FEIA)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 7445-0
- 7445-0
Result Turnaround Time
1-3 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
0.5 mL for every 5 allergens requested
Minimum Volume
0.3 mL for 1 allergen
Container
Serum gel (preferred), Red top (acceptable), Submission: Plastic vial
Collection Instructions
Centrifuge and aliquot serum into a plastic vial.
Causes for Rejection
Gross hemolysis, Gross lipemia
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Refrigerated | 14 days |
| Frozen | 90 days |