Snail, IgE, Serum
Use
This test is useful for establishing the diagnosis of an allergy to snail by identifying the specific allergen responsible for symptoms. It assists in confirming sensitization before immunotherapy and investigates allergic reactions to various allergens, such as insect venom or drugs. IgE antibody testing is best suited for use in patients who are suspected of having an allergy and for whom allergen identification influences medical management.
Special Instructions
The test requires serum as the primary specimen, with a preferred volume of 0.5 mL for each allergen tested. Centrifugation and aliquoting of serum into a plastic vial are necessary. Special instructions for patients who are not ordering electronically include completing and sending an Allergen Test Request form with the specimen.
Limitations
The presence of IgE antibodies is not always indicative of clinically relevant sensitivity; results must be interpreted in the context of clinical presentation. False positives may occur in patients with high IgE levels due to nonspecific binding. The test is not useful for determining residual sensitivity post-immunotherapy or if allergen specificity does not impact management.
New York Approved
Methodology
Immunoassay (Fluorescence Enzyme Immunoassay (FEIA))
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 11200-3
- 11200-3
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
Container
Plastic vial
Collection Instructions
Centrifuge and aliquot serum into a plastic vial.
Causes for Rejection
None specified; gross hemolysis and lipemia are acceptable.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Refrigerated | 14 days |
| Frozen | 90 days |