What is an allergy blood test?
An allergy blood test is used to find the substance, or allergen, that is the cause of an allergic reaction. Allergy blood tests look for antibodies to find out if an allergic reaction has occurred.
The most common type of blood test used is the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA, EIA). It is used to measure the amount of the antibody called immunoglobulin E (IgE) that the body makes in response to an allergen.
What do you need to do before the test?
You do not need to do anything before you have this test.
Tell your doctor if you:
- Are taking any medicines.
- Are allergic to any medicines.
- Have had bleeding problems or take blood-thinners, such as aspirin or warfarin (Coumadin).
- Are or might be pregnant.
Talk to your doctor about any concerns you have about the need for the test, its risks, how it will be done, or what the results may mean. To help you understand the importance of this test, fill out the medical test information form.
How does the test feel?
The blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm. An elastic band is wrapped around your upper arm. It may feel tight. You may feel nothing at all from the needle, or you may feel a quick sting or pinch.
Credits
| Author | Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS |
| Editor | Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA |
| Associate Editor | Pat Truman |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine |
| Specialist Medical Reviewer | Harold S. Nelson, MD - Allergy and Immunology |
| Last Updated | September 25, 2007 |
