Beets (Beetroot), IgE, Serum
Use
This test is useful in establishing a diagnosis of an allergy to beets by identifying the specific allergens responsible for allergic responses or anaphylactic episodes. It also confirms sensitization before starting immunotherapy and investigates the specificity of allergic reactions, including those related to insect venoms, drugs, or chemicals. However, testing for IgE antibodies is not considered useful in patients who have already undergone immunotherapy if the medical management does not depend on identifying the specific allergen.
Special Instructions
If not ordering electronically, complete, print, and send an Allergen Test Request (T236) with the specimen. For a list of available allergens, refer to Allergens - Immunoglobulin E (IgE) Antibodies documentation.
Limitations
IgE antibody tests may be falsely elevated in individuals with high concentrations of IgE due to nonspecific binding. In some cases, individuals with clinically insignificant sensitivity might still show measurable levels of IgE antibodies, needing careful clinical interpretation. Additionally, IgE antibody testing post-immunotherapy might not indicate current sensitivity, and the test might not be useful where clinical management does not rely on identifying specific allergens.
New York Approved
Methodology
Immunoassay (FEIA)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 19728-5
- 19728-5
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
For 1 allergen: 0.3 mL; For more than 1 allergen: (0.05 mL x number of allergens) + 0.25 mL dead space
Container
Plastic vial
Collection Instructions
Centrifuge and aliquot serum into a plastic vial.
Causes for Rejection
Gross hemolysis: OK; Gross lipemia: OK
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Refrigerated | 14 days |
| Frozen | 90 days |