Test Details
Methodology
Thermo Fisher ImmunoCAP®
Use
Detect possible allergic responses to various substances in the environment 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.
Limitations
Quantitative allergen-specific IgE test results should be interpreted in the context of all available clinical and laboratory findings. High levels of total IgE (>3000 IU/mL as may be seen due to parasitic infestation or other conditions) may result in nonspecific binding. Testing in these patients should be re-evaluated once the medical condition has been eliminated.
Custom Additional Information
Identification of allergen or allergens in patients with atopic disease may be approached clinically by history, physical findings, skin and/or quantitative allergen-specific IgE testing. Numerous reports comparing skin testing and quantitative allergen-specific IgE have accumulated in the literature, generally to assess which method has the better sensitivity/specificity.
Specimen Requirements
Specimen
Serum
Volume
0.1 mL per allergen
Minimum Volume
0.07 mL per allergen
Container
Red-top tube or gel-barrier tube
Storage Instructions
Room temperature
Causes for Rejection
Improper labeling; gross hemolysis