BLOOD TESTING FOR ALLERGIES

In addition to skin prick tests and intradermal skin testing, blood tests can be used to detect substances that cause allergic reactions. Although skin tests are considered more accurate and provide immediate results, some people cannot have skin tests due to a skin condition or while taking antihistamines. Blood tests check for immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies in your blood. Your immune system produces these antibodies in response to harmful substances such as bacteria, viruses, and allergens. If you have an allergy, your body will produce IgE in response to an allergen. A total IgE test measures your total IgE level, while a specific IgE test measures the amount of IgE in your blood in response to an allergen.

P.S. You may be asked to abstain from food and beverages (other than water) prior to a blood allergy test.

---

< < Back to All Articles