Ampicillin, IgE, Serum
Use
This test is useful for establishing a diagnosis of an allergy to ampicillin and defining the allergen responsible for eliciting signs and symptoms. It can identify allergens responsible for allergic responses and/or anaphylactic episodes, confirm sensitization prior to beginning immunotherapy, and investigate the specificity of allergic reactions to insect venom allergens, drugs, or chemical allergens. Testing for IgE antibodies is not useful in patients previously treated with immunotherapy to determine if residual clinical sensitivity exists or in patients where medical management does not depend on identifying allergen specificity.
Special Instructions
For patients not ordering electronically, complete, print, and send an Allergen Test Request (T236) with the specimen. The collection of a serum sample should utilize a serum gel tube if possible, otherwise a red top is acceptable. Centrifuge and aliquot the serum into a plastic vial.
Limitations
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. Additionally, some individuals with clinically insignificant sensitivity to allergens may have measurable levels of IgE antibodies in serum, underscoring the importance of interpreting test results within the clinical context.
FDA ApprovedNew York Approved
Methodology
Immunoassay (FEIA)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 6712-4
- 6712-4
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; (0.05 mL x number of allergens) + 0.25 mL deadspace for more than 1 allergen
Container
Plastic vial
Collection Instructions
Centrifuge and aliquot serum into a plastic vial.
Causes for Rejection
Gross hemolysis and gross lipemia are acceptable.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Refrigerated | 14 days |
| Frozen | 90 days |