Russian Thistle, IgE, Serum
Use
This test is useful for establishing a diagnosis of an allergy to Russian thistle, defining the allergen responsible for eliciting signs and symptoms, and identifying allergens responsible for allergic responses and/or anaphylactic episodes. It is also used to confirm sensitization prior to beginning immunotherapy and to investigate the specificity of allergic reactions to insect venom allergens, drugs, or chemical allergens. However, testing for IgE antibodies is not useful in patients previously treated with immunotherapy or in those for whom medical management does not depend on allergen identification.
Special Instructions
If not ordering electronically, an Allergen Test Request form (T236) should be completed, printed, and sent with the specimen. The test may be ordered along with other allergen tests, where the specimen volume required adjusts based on the number of allergens requested.
Limitations
The detection of IgE antibodies may not be useful in patients who have been treated with immunotherapy as residual clinical sensitivity may not be detectable. Additionally, false-positive results can occur in patients with markedly elevated serum IgE (>2500 kU/L) due to nonspecific binding to allergen solid phases.
FDA ApprovedNew York Approved
Methodology
Immunoassay (FEIA)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 6234-9
- 6234-9
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
(0.05 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 |