Candida albicans (Monilia), IgE, Serum
Use
This test is useful for establishing a diagnosis of an allergy to Candida albicans (Monilia) by detecting specific IgE antibodies in the serum. It assists in defining the allergen responsible for eliciting signs and symptoms of allergy. It is particularly beneficial in identifying allergens responsible for allergic response and/or anaphylactic episodes and confirming sensitization prior to immunotherapy. Additionally, it can help investigate the specificity of allergic reactions to insect venom allergens, drugs, or chemical allergens. However, testing for IgE antibodies is not advised for individuals previously treated with immunotherapy when determining residual clinical sensitivity is not required or when medical management does not rely on allergen specificity.
Special Instructions
For patients not ordering electronically, complete and send an Allergen Test Request (T236) with the specimen. Collection should be facilitated using a serum gel tube as preferred or a red top as acceptable. After collection, centrifuge and aliquot serum into a plastic vial for submission.
Limitations
This test may result in false positives for patients with significantly elevated serum IgE levels (>2500 kU/L) due to nonspecific binding to allergen solid phases. Additionally, detectable IgE antibodies may not always correlate with clinical significance as some individuals may have measurable IgE levels without clinically relevant sensitivity. Hence, results should always be interpreted within the broader clinical context.
New York Approved
Methodology
Immunoassay (FEIA)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 6059-0
- 6059-0
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
For 1 allergen: 0.3 mL. For more than 1 allergen: (0.05 mL x number of allergens) + 0.25 mL deadspace
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 |