Firebush (Kochia), IgE, Serum
Use
This test is useful for establishing a diagnosis of an allergy to firebush (Kochia) and defining the allergen responsible for eliciting allergic symptoms. It identifies allergens that are responsible for allergic responses and/or anaphylactic episodes. This test can confirm sensitization prior to starting immunotherapy and can help investigate the specificity of allergic reactions to insect venom allergens, drugs, or chemical allergens. However, testing for IgE antibodies is not useful for patients previously treated with immunotherapy to determine residual clinical sensitivity, nor in cases where medical management does not rely on identifying allergen specificity.
Special Instructions
If not ordering electronically, complete, print, and send an Allergen Test Request (T236) with the specimen. The test is available for NY State clients.
Limitations
The test might not accurately reflect clinical sensitivity in individuals who have undergone immunotherapy or in cases where management does not depend on identifying specific allergens. False-positive results may occur in patients with markedly elevated serum IgE (>2500 kU/L) due to nonspecific binding to allergen solid phases. Additionally, the presence of IgE antibodies does not necessarily correlate with clinically significant allergic responses as some individuals may have clinically insignificant sensitivity despite measurable IgE levels.
FDA ApprovedNew York Approved
Methodology
Immunoassay (FEIA)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 6118-4
- 6118-4
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; 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: Plastic vial
Collection Instructions
Centrifuge and aliquot serum into a plastic vial.
Causes for Rejection
Avoid gross hemolysis.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Refrigerated | 14 days |
| Frozen | 90 days |