Cat Epithelium, IgE, Serum

Casandra

Casandra Test Code MC43907Version 1 (DRAFT)

Performing Lab

Lab Mayo Clinic LabLab Test ID CATCPT Code 86003

Cat Epithelium, IgE, Serum

Clinical Use

Use

This test is useful for establishing a diagnosis of an allergy to cat epithelium. It helps define the allergen responsible for eliciting signs and symptoms and is used to confirm sensitization prior to beginning immunotherapy. The test also aids in investigating the specificity of allergic reactions to insect venom allergens, drugs, or chemical allergens. Detection of IgE antibodies in serum indicates an increased likelihood of allergic disease as opposed to other etiologies and defines the allergens that may be responsible for eliciting signs and symptoms.

Special Instructions

Testing for IgE antibodies is not useful in patients previously treated with immunotherapy to determine if residual clinical sensitivity exists or in patients for whom the medical management does not depend upon identification of allergen specificity. 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, and test results must be interpreted in the clinical context. False-positive results for IgE antibodies may occur in patients with markedly elevated serum IgE levels (>2500 kU/L) due to nonspecific binding to allergen solid phases. The level of IgE antibodies in serum varies directly with the concentration of IgE antibodies expressed as a class score or kU/L.

Test Details

FDA Approved