Birch Pollen Allergy Test London | Bet v1 IgE
This guide explains birch pollen IgE testing and the Bet v1 component pathway, including oral allergy syndrome cross-reactivity patterns with foods such as apple, hazelnut, and carrot. Our service is CQC-registered and diagnostic-only: we provide nurse-led venous sample collection and laboratory reporting, while diagnosis and treatment decisions remain with your GP or specialist.
Safety note
If severe breathing symptoms, throat swelling, collapse, or suspected anaphylaxis occur, call 999 immediately. Blood testing is not an emergency service.
Bet v1 and OAS cross-reactivity
Bet v1 is a key birch pollen component used in component-resolved allergy pathways. In some sensitised patients, cross-reactive proteins can cause oral itch or tingling with raw foods such as apple, hazelnut, and carrot.
This pattern is often described as oral allergy syndrome (OAS) or pollen-food syndrome. Results should be interpreted with symptom timing and clinical history by your GP or specialist.
London birch pollen season (March-May)
In London, birch pollen exposure is commonly highest from March to May. Day-to-day levels can fluctuate with weather conditions and local tree density.
Correlating symptoms with seasonal timing can help your clinician interpret IgE and component results more accurately.
Birch Components Test
Component-level birch testing support, including Bet v1 pathway context.
View Birch Components Test →Frequently asked questions
What is Bet v1 in birch pollen allergy?
Bet v1 is a major birch pollen allergen component. Sensitisation to Bet v1 can be associated with seasonal rhinitis symptoms and pollen-food cross-reactivity patterns in some people.
What is OAS cross-reactivity in birch allergy?
Oral allergy syndrome (OAS), also called pollen-food syndrome, can occur due to cross-reactive proteins. In birch pathways this may involve foods such as apple, hazelnut, and carrot.
When is birch pollen season in London?
Birch pollen levels in London are commonly highest from March to May, although timing can vary by weather and local exposure conditions each year.
Can this blood test diagnose allergy on its own?
No. Specific IgE findings are supportive and must be interpreted with your symptoms and history by your GP or specialist. Our clinic provides nurse-led blood sample collection and laboratory reporting only.