Cat Allergy Profile With Component Reflex
Test Code: 606650
Specimen Type: Blood
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Description:
Cat Allergy Profile With Component Reflex (Labcorp)
The cat allergy profile blood test looks for an allergic reaction to cats aka felines. Blood allergy testing measures the level of IgE antibodies to specific allergens. These antibodies trigger the release of histamine which causes the symptoms commonly associated with allergies.
Depending on the severity of their symptoms, people with a cat allergy may not be able to keep cats as pets and may have to avoid places where cats are present. Common symptoms of a pet allergy includes sneezing, runny or stuffy nose, nasal congestion which may cause facial pain, coughing, watery red or itchy eyes, skin rash or hives, difficulty breathing, or wheezing. In some cases, a severe allergic reaction can trigger anaphylaxis which can be life-threatening. Seek immediate medical care if you experience symptoms including shortness of breath, lightheadedness, tightness in the chest, or difficulty breathing.
This test initially looks for an allergic reaction to cat dander. In the event of a positive result, additional reflex testing for specific protein allergens will be performed at no extra cost. These additional tests can help to determine the severity of a person’s allergy to cats and how likely they are to be allergic to other animals.
The additional cat protein allergy testing includes:
- Fel D 1: Fel D 1 is found in the saliva of cats. This protein is typically found in large quantities on the skin and fur of cats due to their grooming behavior. About 95% of people who have an allergic reaction to cat dander will show positive IgE values for Fel D 1. Around 40-70% of people who test positive for IgE antibodies to Fel D 1 will not show an allergic sensitivity to any other feline protein allergens. The Fel D 1 protein has no significant cross-reactivity with proteins from other mammals so a positive allergic reaction is usually specific to cats.
- Fel D 2: Fel D 2 is cat albumin. Serum albumins are an uncommon source of allergic reactions. It is interesting to note that studies have shown a cross-reactivity between Fel D 2 and albumins found in pork. As a result, some people who are allergic to cats find that they are also allergic to pork. This condition is commonly called pork-cat syndrome. There is a significant level of cross-reactivity between Fel D 2 and other animal allergens. Someone who has a positive IgE antibody value for Fel D 2 but not for other feline allergens may not actually have a primary allergy to cats.
- Fel D 4: Fel D 4 is a lipocalin protein found in cat dander and the 2nd most common source of cat allergies. About 30-60% of people with a cat allergy will show positive IgE antibodies to Fel D 4. Most people who have an allergic reaction to Fel D 4 will also show a reaction to Fel D 1. There is a high level of cross-reactivity between Fel D 4 and dander from other mammals, including dogs, horses, mice, rabbits, and rats. People who test positive for IgE antibodies to Fel D 4 but negative to Fel D 1 may have a primary allergy to an animal other than cats.
Test results should be interpreted along with a person’s clinical symptoms. For example, a positive result for cat allergens in a person who shows no allergy symptoms around cats may be due to cross-reactivity with allergens from another type of animal.
The Cat Allergy Panel is also offered along with a Dog Allergy Panel in our Cat & Dog Allergy Panel Test. Request A Test also offers a Cat Allergy Blood Test with no reflex testing. Please see our Allergy Testing Category for more testing options.
Turnaround for this test is typically 2-5 business days. Additional time may be necessary if reflex testing is performed.
Where can I find a Cat Allergy Panel test near me?
Check our lab finder to locate a collection site in your area.
Note: Result turn around times are an estimate and are not guaranteed. Our reference lab may need additional time due to weather, holidays, confirmation/repeat testing, or equipment maintenance.
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