Cat Epithelium, IgE, Serum
Use
This test is useful for establishing a diagnosis of an allergy to cat epithelium. It helps define the allergen responsible for eliciting signs and symptoms and is used to confirm sensitization prior to beginning immunotherapy. The test also aids in investigating the specificity of allergic reactions to insect venom allergens, drugs, or chemical allergens. Detection of IgE antibodies in serum indicates an increased likelihood of allergic disease as opposed to other etiologies and defines the allergens that may be responsible for eliciting signs and symptoms.
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 for whom the medical management does not depend upon identification of allergen specificity. If not ordering electronically, complete, print, and send an Allergen Test Request (T236) with the specimen.
Limitations
Some individuals with clinically insignificant sensitivity to allergens may have measurable levels of IgE antibodies in serum, and test results must be interpreted in the clinical context. False-positive results for IgE antibodies may occur in patients with markedly elevated serum IgE levels (>2500 kU/L) due to nonspecific binding to allergen solid phases. The level of IgE antibodies in serum varies directly with the concentration of IgE antibodies expressed as a class score or kU/L.
FDA ApprovedNew York Approved
Methodology
Immunoassay (Fluorescence Enzyme Immunoassay (FEIA))
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 6833-8
- 6833-8
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
Preferred: Serum gel; Acceptable: Red top; Submission Container/Tube: 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 |