House Dust Mites/Dermatophagoides farinae, IgE, Serum
Use
This test is useful for establishing a diagnosis of an allergy to house dust mites, specifically Dermatophagoides farinae. It helps define the allergen responsible for eliciting signs and symptoms by identifying relevant allergens that could be causing allergic responses or anaphylactic episodes. Additionally, the test can confirm sensitization before starting immunotherapy and investigate the specificity of allergic reactions to insect venom, drugs, or chemical allergens. Testing for IgE antibodies is not useful in patients previously treated with immunotherapy if residual clinical sensitivity exists or where allergen specificity does not impact medical management.
Special Instructions
For ordering, if not executed electronically, complete, print, and send an Allergen Test Request (T236) with the specimen. The serum collection should be done in a gel or red top tube and then aliquoted into a plastic vial post-centrifugation.
Limitations
Testing for IgE antibodies may produce false-positive results in patients with significantly elevated serum IgE (>2500 kU/L), due to nonspecific binding to allergen solid phases. Additionally, some individuals with minor clinical sensitivity may still have measurable IgE levels, and interpretation should always consider clinical context.
FDA ApprovedNew York Approved
Methodology
Immunoassay (FEIA)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 6095-4
- 6095-4
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
For one allergen: 0.3 mL For more than one 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: OK Gross lipemia: OK
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Refrigerated | 14 days |
| Frozen | 90 days |