Cow Epithelium, IgE, Serum
Use
This test is useful for establishing a diagnosis of an allergy to cow epithelium and identifying the allergen responsible for eliciting signs and symptoms. It helps to identify allergens responsible for allergic response and/or anaphylactic episodes, confirm sensitization prior to beginning immunotherapy, and 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 to determine if residual clinical sensitivity exists or in patients where management does not depend upon the identification of allergen specificity.
Special Instructions
For a listing of allergens available for testing, see the Allergens - Immunoglobulin E (IgE) Antibodies document. If not ordering electronically, complete, print, and send an Allergen Test Request (T236) with the specimen.
Limitations
Testing for IgE antibodies is not useful in patients previously treated with immunotherapy to determine if residual clinical sensitivity exists. Some individuals with clinically insignificant sensitivity to allergens may have measurable levels of IgE antibodies in serum, and false-positive results for IgE antibodies may 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
- 7257-9
- 7257-9
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
For 1 allergen: 0.3 mL
Container
Preferred: Serum gel; Acceptable: Red top; Submission: Plastic vial
Collection Instructions
Centrifuge and aliquot serum into a plastic vial.
Causes for Rejection
Gross hemolysis and gross lipemia are acceptable.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Refrigerated | 14 days |
| Frozen | 90 days |