Rat Epithelium, IgE, Serum
Use
The test is used for establishing a diagnosis of an allergy to rat and defining the allergen responsible for eliciting signs and symptoms. It identifies allergens responsible for an allergic response or anaphylactic episode, confirms sensitization prior to beginning immunotherapy, and investigates the specificity of allergic reactions to insect venom allergens, drugs, or chemical allergens. Testing for IgE antibodies helps in providing an indication of the immune response to allergens associated with allergic diseases.
Special Instructions
For a listing of allergens available for testing, refer to the 'Allergens - Immunoglobulin E (IgE) Antibodies' document. If not ordering electronically, complete, print, and send an Allergen Test Request (T236) with the specimen.
Limitations
The test is not useful in patients previously treated with immunotherapy to determine if residual clinical sensitivity exists, or in patients whose medical management does not depend upon identification of allergen specificity. False-positive results may occur in patients with markedly elevated serum IgE (>2500 kU/L) due to nonspecific binding. Test results must be interpreted in the clinical context, as some individuals with clinically insignificant sensitivity to allergens may have measurable levels of IgE antibodies in serum.
FDA ApprovedNew York Approved
Methodology
Immunoassay (Fluorescence Enzyme Immunoassay (FEIA))
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 6224-0
- 6224-0
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
0.3 mL for 1 allergen; (0.05 mL x number of allergens) + 0.25 mL dead space for more than 1 allergen
Container
Preferred: Serum gel. Acceptable: Red top. Submission container: Plastic vial.
Collection Instructions
Centrifuge and aliquot serum into a plastic vial.
Causes for Rejection
OK if gross hemolysis or gross lipemia present
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Refrigerated | 14 days |
| Frozen | 90 days |