Cereal Allergy Test

Test Code: 7915 Specimen Type: Blood

Description:

Cereal Allergy Test (Quest)

What is a cereal allergy?

Allergies are caused by the immune system reacting to certain triggers that would otherwise be harmless to the body.  Food allergies, such as those to the grains and other materials found in cereals, affect as many as 1 in 10 adults. The immune system mistakenly sees these allergens as a threat and produces IgE antibodies in response.  The production of IgE antibodies triggers the release of an inflammatory agent, histamine.  Histamine is what causes the symptoms typically associated with an allergic reaction. 

The Cereal Allergy Panel includes testing for:

• Barley
• Buckwheat
• Gluten
• Rice
• Rye

What are cereal allergy symptoms?

Allergic reactions to cereal can range from severe to life-threatening.  Common symptoms include:

• Hives
• Itching, redness, or inflammation of the skin
• Swelling in the face, mouth, or throat
• Stomach pain
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Congestion
• Coughing
• Itchy, watery eyes
• Runny nose

Severe reactions may cause difficulty breathing, a drop in blood pressure, and loss of consciousness.  Anyone experiencing signs of Anaphylaxis should go to the hospital or consult their doctor immediately.

How do you test for a cereal allergy?

Allergy testing measures the amount of IgE antibodies to specific allergens in the blood.  A person’s IgE antibody level can help determine if they are allergic to a particular substance and how severe their allergy is.  High IgE test results and clinical symptoms of an allergic reaction should be discussed with your doctor to determine the appropriate course of action.  If your test results do not show elevated IgE antibody levels, but you continue to experience allergy symptoms, consult your doctor.

Turnaround for test results is typically 2-5 business days.

Where can I find a Cereal Allergy test near me?

Check our lab finder to locate a collection site in your area.