Shellfish Allergy Test Panel

Do you have allergy symptoms and suspect nuts might be the cause?  Our Nut Allergy Test Panel measures your immune system response to specific nut proteins, which can be part of helping to determine whether you have an allergy. Our Nut Allergy Test Panel measures the levels of specific immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies in your blood. These antibodies are an immune response to specific nut and tree nut allergens. IgE antibodies are normally found in small amounts in the blood, but higher amounts can be a sign of allergy. This panel includes:

• Almond
• Brazil nut
• Cashew nut
• Hazelnut
• Macadamia nut
• Peanut
• Pecan nut
• Pistachio
• Walnut

Higher levels of IgEs can be detected whether or not you have recently eaten the particular food. A nut allergy is a common type of food allergy and can cause serious allergic reactions in some people. Peanut allergies, in particular, can cause a severe, life-threatening response. If someone with a nut or peanut allergy eats or comes across products containing nut or tree nut proteins your immune system activates the release of too much of the antibody IgE. IgE activation causes the release of a substance called histamine, which causes an allergic reaction. Peanuts are not the same as tree nuts. The proteins found in peanuts differ from those found in tree nuts. Tree nuts include almonds, Brazil nuts, cashew nuts, hazelnuts, pecan nuts, pistachios, and walnuts. Individuals allergic to one tree nut may not necessarily have an allergy to all tree nuts. While peanuts and tree nuts are not the same, individuals with an allergy to peanuts may have an allergic reaction similar to those with an allergy to tree nuts. PLEASE NOTE: This test reports the presence of lgE(s) antibodies to nut allergens, but the result by itself cannot confirm the presence of the allergy. It’s important to follow up with your healthcare provider or an allergy specialist. They will review your results along with your medical history, signs and symptoms, medications, and any other test results. Only a healthcare provider can diagnose an allergy and prescribe medication, if needed.