Sunflower Seed, IgE, Serum
Use
This test is useful for establishing a diagnosis of an allergy to sunflower seed, defining the allergen responsible for eliciting signs and symptoms, identifying allergens responsible for allergic response or anaphylactic episode, confirming sensitization prior to beginning immunotherapy, and investigating the specificity of allergic reactions to insect venom allergens, drugs, or chemical allergens. Testing for IgE antibodies is not useful in patients previously treated with immunotherapy to determine if residual clinical sensitivity exists or in patients in whom the medical management does not depend upon identification of allergen specificity.
Special Instructions
For a listing of allergens available for testing, see Allergens - Immunoglobulin E (IgE) Antibodies. If not ordering electronically, complete, print, and send an Allergen Test Request (T236) with the specimen.
Limitations
Some individuals with clinically insignificant sensitivity to allergens may have measurable levels of IgE antibodies in serum, requiring interpretation within the clinical context. False-positive results for IgE antibodies 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
- 6258-8
- 6258-8
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 1 allergen: 0.3 mL
Container
Preferred: Serum gel; Acceptable: Red top
Collection Instructions
Centrifuge and aliquot serum into a plastic vial.
Storage Instructions
Refrigerated (preferred) 14 days, Frozen 90 days
Causes for Rejection
Gross hemolysis OK, Gross lipemia OK
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Refrigerated | 14 days |
| Frozen | 90 days |