Allergy Profile 1 (Food & Inhalants)
Sample: (B)(B), TAT: 2 days, Desc.: Total IgE with individual IgE allergens for: Grass Mix, inc.: Cocksfoot, Meadow fescue, Meadow, Rye, Timothy Weed Mix, inc.: Common ragweed, Giant ragweed, Western ragweed Dust Mix, inc.: Blatella germanica, Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus, Dermatophagoides farinae, Hollister-Stier Labs Mould Mix, inc.: A. alternata, Aspergillus fumigatus, Candida albicans, Cladosporium herbarum, Helminthosporium halodes, Penicillium notatum Tree Mix, inc.: Box elder, Common silverbirch, Hazel, Oak, London plane, Maple, Sycamore Single Allergens (19): Beef, Bermuda grass, Cat dander, Clam, Common silver birch, Cow’s milk, Crab, Dog dander, Egg white, Egg yolk, Fish (Cod), Hazelnut, Horse dander, Latex, Nettle, Peanut, Shrimp/Prawn, Soya bean, Wheat
Laboratory Specifications
Clinical Rationale
Allergic disease represents an inappropriate immune response to ubiquitous environmental proteins. When an individual becomes sensitised to a specific allergen, the immune system synthesises Immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies. Upon subsequent exposure, these antibodies trigger a cascade of inflammatory mediators from mast cells and basophils, resulting in clinical symptoms that range from rhinitis and urticaria to systemic anaphylaxis.
The Allergy Profile 1 (Food & Inhalants) provides a precise, quantitative measurement of these specific IgE antibodies circulating within the vascular system. Unlike subjective assessments, this blood-based assay offers a reproducible clinical marker. Identifying the exact molecular triggers is a key part of allergy management, allowing for targeted allergen avoidance and informed discussions with a clinical team.
The Patient Pathway
At the Allergy Clinic, we prioritise clinical excellence and patient comfort. Our service is located at our CQC-registered facility in South Kensington, where our clinical staff maintain rigorous aseptic techniques and a patient-centric approach.
The procedure involves a standard venepuncture to collect a small volume of blood. This method is often preferred for patients where skin prick testing (SPT) is contraindicated, such as those with extensive dermatitis, dermatographism, or those unable to safely cease antihistamine therapy. Following collection, samples are processed and transported under temperature-controlled conditions to our UKAS-accredited partner laboratory for molecular analysis using gold-standard ImmunoCAP technology or equivalent.
Interpretation of Laboratory Findings
Your results will be presented as a quantitative value in kUA/L. It is a fundamental tenet of immunology that a positive IgE result indicates sensitisation, which must be correlated with clinical symptoms by a qualified medical practitioner to confirm an allergy.
Results are typically classified into tiers, from Class 0 (Undetectable) to Class 6 (Very High). A higher concentration of specific IgE generally correlates with a higher probability of clinical reactivity upon exposure. However, the absolute value does not necessarily predict the severity of a future reaction.
Diagnostic Standards & Limitations
Service Disclaimer: The Allergy Clinic is a professional diagnostic provider. We provide high-quality blood testing and laboratory reports. In accordance with GMC and CQC guidelines, we do not provide medical diagnoses, treatment plans, or prescriptions. Our service is designed to empower patients with clinical data to be reviewed by their General Practitioner (GP) or a consultant.
Compliance: All testing is conducted in accordance with clinical standards. This information is intended for educational purposes and does not constitute medical advice. For emergency symptoms (anaphylaxis), please contact emergency services immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I take this test?
The Allergy Profile 1 (Food & Inhalants) is ideally performed when you are experiencing symptoms such as sneezing, itching, hives, or digestive distress that you suspect are linked to specific environmental or food triggers. Unlike skin testing, there is no need to wait for a "flare-up" to subside; the IgE levels in your blood provide a stable clinical marker of your immune system's sensitisation status.
What are the typical results for this profile?
A typical report for this test provides a numerical value for each allergen tested. Values below 0.35 kUA/L are generally considered "undetectable" or "absent sensitisation." Higher values indicate varying degrees of sensitisation. It is common for individuals to show low-level sensitisation to several allergens without experiencing clinical symptoms; this is why results must be interpreted alongside your personal medical history.
How long does it take to get results?
For the Allergy Profile 1 (Food & Inhalants), our laboratory processing time is consistently 3 to 5 working days from the moment your sample reaches the lab. Once validated by a clinical scientist, your secure digital report will be sent directly to your provided email address.
How does this differ from 'at-home' finger-prick kits?
Finger-prick (capillary) tests are prone to haemolysis and contamination, which can lead to inaccurate results. Our venous collection by clinical staff ensures sample integrity and the volume required for high-sensitivity laboratory equipment, providing a significantly more reliable clinical result.
Can I continue taking my medications?
Yes. Standard allergy blood tests (Specific IgE) are not affected by antihistamines, corticosteroids, or other common allergy medications, meaning you do not need to alter your medication regime prior to your appointment.