In the quest to understand and manage allergies effectively, laboratory allergy testing stands as a pivotal resource.
ALLIANCE™ Laboratories are equipped to identify sensitivities across a diverse array of allergens.
ALLERGIES EXPLAINED:
When someone has an allergy to a particular substance (allergen), their immune system mistakenly identifies this normally harmless substance as a threat. In response, the immune system produces Immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies specific to that allergen.
Upon subsequent exposure to the allergen, these IgE antibodies recognize it and signal the immune system to release chemicals such as histamine. This release leads to the symptoms of an allergic reaction, which can range from mild (e.g., itching, sneezing, hives) to severe (e.g., anaphylaxis, a potentially life-threatening condition).
By measuring the levels of specific IgE antibodies in the blood, clinicians can identify which substances a person may be allergic to. This is crucial for diagnosing food allergies, as it allows for the identification of specific foods that trigger allergic responses.
Testing for IgE antibodies is fundamental to diagnosing food allergies because it directly targets the mechanism underlying allergic reactions. This approach allows for precise identification of allergens, enabling effective patient care and management strategies.
ALLIANCE™ employs a comprehensive approach to detect sensitivities to a range of common allergens.
OUR ALLERGEN PANEL:
| Tree | Grass | Insect | Dust | Dander | Food | Mold |
| Ash,White
Box Elder Cottonwood, Eastern Elm, White Hickory, Shellbark Oak, White |
Bermuda
Cocklebur English Plantain Lamb’s Quarters Mugwort Ragweed, Short Sweet Vernal Timothy
|
Cockroach Mix | House
Mite (D farine)
|
Dog
Cat |
Almond
Corn Egg White Garlic Milk Orange Peanut Potato Rice Shellfish Mix Soybean Wheat Yeast, Baker’s
|
Alternaria
Aspergillus Cladosporium Penicillum
|
METHODOLOGY:
ALLIANCE™ employs quantitative allergy testing for different types of Immunoglobulins (Ig), IgA, IgE, IgG, and IgM:
| IgA Quantitative | Measures the level of IgA, which is crucial for mucosal immunity, particularly in the respiratory and gastrointestinal tracts. It helps identify IgA deficiencies or elevated levels associated with certain autoimmune conditions. |
| IgE Quantitative | Focuses on detecting IgE antibodies specific to the allergens tested. High levels of IgE are indicative of an allergic response, making this test fundamental for diagnosing both environmental and food allergies. |
| IgG Quantitative | Evaluates IgG antibodies, which could suggest longer-term exposure to allergens. Used to provide insights into chronic sensitivities and immune system health. |
| IgM Quantitative | Detects IgM, which is the first antibody type produced in response to an infection or allergen. High levels indicate a recent exposure to the allergen, useful for diagnosing early-stage sensitivities. |
Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA)
Used to quantify the immunoglobulins. It relies on the principle of antibodies binding to specific antigens. The test involves coating a plate with antigen and adding the patient’s serum. If the specific immunoglobulin is present, it binds to the antigen. A fluorescent tagged secondary antibody, which is enzyme-linked and specific to human immunoglobulins, is then added. This secondary antibody binds to the complex. A substrate is added last (or the complex is exposed to UV/Vis light), which reacts with the tagged enzyme to produce a detectable signal, usually colorimetric, which can be measured and qualified.
COLLECTION:
The test requires a 2 mL serum sample, collected using a Serum Separator Tube (red-gray marble), centrifuged and submitted to ALLIANCE™ at room temperature.