Cacao/Cocoa, IgE, Serum
Use
This test is useful for establishing a diagnosis of an allergy to cacao/cocoa by detecting IgE antibodies in the serum. It helps define the allergen responsible for eliciting signs and symptoms of allergic reactions. The test is significant for identifying allergens responsible for allergic responses and/or anaphylactic episodes and confirming sensitization prior to beginning immunotherapy. However, testing for IgE antibodies may not be useful in patients previously treated with immunotherapy or in scenarios where medical management does not depend on identifying allergen specificity.
Special Instructions
Clients not ordering electronically should complete, print, and send an Allergen Test Request form (T236) with the specimen. The test includes specific IgE quantitation using the ImmunoCAP system, and specimens must be collected in serum gel or red top tubes, centrifuged, and aliquoted into plastic vials.
Limitations
The presence of IgE antibodies suggests an increased likelihood of allergic disease but must be interpreted in a clinical context, as false positives may occur with elevated serum IgE levels (>2500 kU/L) due to nonspecific binding to allergen solid phases. Some individuals with clinically insignificant sensitivity may still have measurable levels of IgE antibodies. The test is not suitable for determining residual clinical sensitivity after immunotherapy treatment.
FDA ApprovedNew York Approved
Methodology
Immunoassay (Fluorescence Enzyme Immunoassay (FEIA))
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 6080-6
- 6080-6
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
Not provided
Container
Plastic vial
Collection Instructions
Centrifuge and aliquot serum into a plastic vial.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Refrigerated | 14 days |
| Frozen | 90 days |