Allergy Screen- Phadiatop (Adult & >5yr), ImmunoCAP
Understanding Allergy Screen- Phadiatop (Adult & >5yr), ImmunoCAP
What is Allergy Screen- Phadiatop (Adult & >5yr), ImmunoCAP?
The Allergy Screen- Phadiatop (Adult & >5yr), ImmunoCAP is an allergy screening test that detects specific IgE antibodies in the blood, which are associated with allergic reactions. This test helps screen for a wide range of allergens that may cause allergic symptoms in adults and children over 5 years old. 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 Screen- Phadiatop (Adult & >5yr), ImmunoCAP is an allergy screening test that helps doctors identify whether an individual’s (above 5 years) symptoms may be due to a common airborne allergen such as dust, pollens, grasses, molds, mites, feathers, etc. It helps diagnose allergic rhinitis, asthma, atopic dermatitis, and other allergic conditions by identifying relevant allergens.
Your doctor may suggest the Allergy Screen- Phadiatop (Adult & >5yr), ImmunoCAP test if you have symptoms suggestive of allergic reactions such as sneezing, runny nose, hives, difficulty breathing, itching, etc. Additionally, the Phadiatop test may be ordered when an individual has a family history of allergies. The test also helps doctors distinguish atopic (IgE-mediated) from non-atopic (non-IgE-mediated) allergies and aids in deciding appropriate treatment.
Allergic bronchial asthma and allergic rhinitis are the most common manifestations of atopy. Therefore, this test may also be advised for individuals with asthma to identify triggers that aggravate asthma symptoms. However, since this test is highly specific to inhalant allergens, it does not assess the sensitivity to food, drugs, or other substances.
A positive Phadiatop test indicates that the individual is sensitive to one or more common inhalant allergens, which can 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.
Generally, no special preparation is required for the Allergy Screen- Phadiatop (Adult & >5yr), ImmunoCAP test. 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.
What is Allergy Screen- Phadiatop (Adult & >5yr), ImmunoCAP used for?
The Allergy Screen- Phadiatop (Adult & >5yr), ImmunoCAP test is done:
- If you experience allergy symptoms such as itchy or watery eyes, swelling, shortness of breath, skin rash, congestion, hives, eczema, or sneezing.
- If you have allergic asthma.
- To track and monitor treatment effectiveness.
- In individuals with a family history of allergies.
What does Allergy Screen- Phadiatop (Adult & >5yr), ImmunoCAP measure?
The Allergy Screen- Phadiatop (Adult & >5yr), ImmunoCAP test is a blood test designed to screen for common inhalant allergens in individuals aged five years and older. This test detects specific Immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies, which the immune system produces in response to inhalant allergens such as pollen, dust mites, pet dander, and mold. ImmunoCAP technology ensures high accuracy and sensitivity in identifying these antibodies, making it a reliable method for determining whether a person has an allergic predisposition.
By confirming allergic sensitization (developing IgE antibodies to inhaled allergens), the Phadiatop test helps doctors develop targeted treatment plans, including strategies to avoid specific allergens and appropriate medications. This is particularly useful as an initial screening tool, guiding further, more specific allergy testing if needed.