Household allergen panel (13)
Household Allergen Panel (13) is a serological allergy screening test designed for the initial assessment of IgE-mediated sensitization to a group of allergens commonly found in the environment. This panel includes allergens derived from animal epithelia, bird feathers, house dust, moulds, as well as tree, grass and weed pollens.
The test determines the presence of specific IgE antibodies against a mixture of allergens and represents a first step in the evaluation of patients with symptoms suggestive of respiratory or environmental allergies. The results contribute to guiding further allergy investigations and establishing the diagnostic approach, depending on the patient’s clinical manifestations and medical history.
Included allergens
| Code | Allergen | Description |
|---|---|---|
| e6 | Guinea pig epithelium | Animal epithelia |
| e82 | Rabbit epithelium | Animal epithelia |
| e84 | Hamster epithelium | Animal epithelia |
| e85 | Caged bird feathers | Bird feathers |
| e87 | Mouse epithelium (Rattus norvegicus) | Animal epithelia |
| g12 | Rye (Secale cereale) | Grass pollen |
| h1 | House dust | Indoor environmental allergen |
| m1 | Penicillium notatum | Mould |
| m2 | Cladosporium herbarum | Mould |
| t4 | Hazel (Corylus avellana) | Tree pollen |
| t7 | White oak (Quercus alba) | Tree pollen |
| w10 | Lamb’s quarters (Chenopodium album) | Weed pollen |
| w20 | Nettle (Urtica dioica) | Weed pollen |
Indications
- recurrent sneezing, nasal congestion, runny nose or nasal itching without an infectious cause;
- respiratory symptoms occurring in certain environments (at home, at the workplace or upon contact with animals);
- eye itching, tearing or symptoms suggestive of allergic conjunctivitis;
- persistent cough, wheezing or symptoms suggestive of allergic asthma;
- suspicion of allergic rhinitis, allergic conjunctivitis or sensitization to environmental allergens;
- initial evaluation of patients with suspected sensitization to inhalant allergens.
Procedure
The analysis is performed based on a venous blood sample collected from the elbow crease. The procedure takes a few minutes and is performed by qualified medical personnel.
Test method
Determination of specific IgE antibodies in serum against a mixture of allergens using an automated immunological method.
Interpretation of results
The test result provides an initial assessment of sensitization to the main categories of allergens evaluated within this panel. In case of a positive result, an allergist may recommend further investigations by determining specific IgE antibodies for individual allergens or through molecular diagnostics, depending on the clinical picture and medical history, in order to provide a detailed characterization of the allergic profile.
Preparation:
No special preparation is required before sample collection.
The test can be performed at any time and does not require discontinuation of antihistamine treatment, as these medications do not influence the determination of specific IgE antibodies in the blood.
It is recommended to inform the medical staff about ongoing treatments and known allergic reactions to ensure correct interpretation of the results.