Allergy - Common Food Panel, ImmunoCAP

The Allergy - Common Food Panel, ImmunoCAP is an allergy screening test that detects specific IgE antibodies in the blood, which are associated with allergic reactions to common food allergens using the ImmunoCAP technique. This test helps screen for a wide range of allergens and is particularly beneficial for individuals who suspect they have food allergies or are experiencing unexplained symptoms that may be related to their diet. The ImmunoCAP technology is highly sensitive and specific, reducing the likelihood of false positives and negatives, making it a reliable tool for diagnosing allergies and guiding treatment.

An allergy occurs when the immune system mistakenly identifies a harmless substance (allergens) as harmful and produces an inappropriate response by producing antibodies called Immunoglobulin E (IgE). The Allergy - Common Food Panel, ImmunoCAP is a type of allergy screening test that helps doctors identify whether an individual’s symptoms may be due to common food allergens such as Milk, peanut, wheat, soyabean, rice, chickpea, lentil, egg white, chicken, meat, cod fish, shrimp/ prawns, orange, banana, peach and apple.

Your doctor may suggest the Allergy - Common Food Panel, ImmunoCAP if you exhibit symptoms associated with food allergy such as nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal pain, nasal congestion, sneezing, itchy/watery eyes, coughing, wheezing, skin rashes, hives, etc. This comprehensive panel may also be advised for individuals with a family history of allergies. This panel measures the amount of total IgE, which is often elevated in an allergic reaction, providing valuable information about the overall immune response.

A positive test result indicates that the individual is sensitive to one or more common food allergens, which can then be further investigated through more specific allergy testing. A negative result indicates no sensitization to the tested allergens, though it does not rule out allergies to other substances not included in this test.

The Allergy - Common Food Panel, ImmunoCAP plays a critical role in managing food allergies by providing insights into dietary restrictions and personalized treatment plans. Once specific food allergens are identified through this panel, doctors can advise individuals on avoiding these triggers and managing potential allergic reactions. Moreover, this panel can also be beneficial for monitoring changes in allergic sensitivities over time, helping individuals and doctors to adapt treatment strategies as needed.

Generally, no special preparation is required for the Allergy - Common Food Panel, ImmunoCAP. However, inform your doctor about any medications (such as antihistamines) you are taking, as they might influence your test results.

Reference ranges may vary based on factors such as age, medical history, etc. Narrate your complete medical history, including any known allergies and symptoms that can impact test interpretations, to help the doctor correlate your laboratory and clinical findings and formulate a robust treatment plan.