IgE Palm, Queen

Laboratory assay overview

This test is used to detect possible allergic responses to various substances in the environment (see Test Includes) and evaluate for hay fever, asthma, atopic eczema and respiratory allergy. The quantitative allergen-specific IgE test is indicated (1) to determine whether an individual has elevated allergen-specific IgE antibodies; (2) if specific allergic sensitivity is needed to allow immunotherapy to be initiated; (3) when testing individuals for agents that may potentially cause anaphylaxis; (4) when evaluating individuals who are taking medication (e.g., long-acting antihistamines) that may interfere with other testing modalities (e.g., skin testing); (5) if immunotherapy or other therapeutic measures based on skin testing results have not led to a satisfactory remission of symptoms; (6) when an individual is unresponsive to medical management where identification of offending allergens may be beneficial.

Laboratory assay overview

Detect possible allergic responses to various substances in the environment (see Test Includes) and evaluate for hay fever, asthma, atopic eczema, and respiratory allergy. The quantitative allergen-specific IgE test is indicated (1) to determine whether an individual has elevated allergen-specific IgE antibodies; (2) if specific allergic sensitivity is needed to allow immunotherapy to be initiated; (3) when testing individuals for agents that may potentially cause anaphylaxis; (4) when evaluating individuals who are taking medication (eg, long-acting antihistamines) that may interfere with other testing modalities (eg, skin testing); (5) if immunotherapy or other therapeutic measures based on skin testing results have not led to a satisfactory remission of symptoms; (6) when an individual is unresponsive to medical management where identification of offending allergens may be beneficial.

Laboratory assay overview

This test that quantifies an individual’s IgE response to Queen palm. It is an in vitro quantitative assay, which is intended to be used in conjunction with other clinical information to aid in the diagnosis of allergic diseases [1]. While allergen-specific serum IgE testing is considered comparable to skin testing in many instances, both the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology and the American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology recognize that allergen-specific serum IgE testing may be preferred in some clinical situations. These include 1) the presence of widespread skin disease, 2) the recent use of antihistamines or other medications that can affect the results of allergy skin tests, 3) uncooperative patients, and 4) medical history suggesting that allergen skin testing would pose a significant risk for a serious allergic reaction [1]. A definitive clinical diagnosis of allergy should not be based on the results of any single diagnostic method, but should be made by a trained healthcare professional after all clinical and laboratory findings have been evaluated. More specific information about this allergen can be found at http://www.phadia.com/en/products/allergy-testing-products/immunocap-allergen-information/tree-pollens/allergens/queen-palm/ Reference 1. Bernstein IL, et al. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol. 2008;100(suppl 3):S1-S148.