Dog Allergy Profile With Component Reflex

Sample Report Test Code: 606659 Specimen Type: Blood

Description:

Dog Allergy Profile With Component Reflex (Labcorp)

The dog allergy profile blood test looks for an allergic reaction to dogs aka canines.  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 dog allergy may not be able to keep dogs as pets and may have to avoid places where dogs are present.  Common symptoms of a pet allergy include 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 dog 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 dogs and how likely they are to be allergic to other animals.

The additional dog protein allergy testing includes:

• Can F 1: Can F 1 is a protein produced by the salivary glands of dogs.  There is some degree of cross-reactivity between Can F 1 and allergens from cats.  This means that people who have positive levels of IgE antibodies to Can F 1 may also be allergic to cats.  Studies have shown that young people who test positive for antibodies to Can F 1 are likely to develop a more severe dog allergy later in life, even if they currently have no allergy symptoms around dogs.
• Can F 2: Can F 2 is very similar to Can F1.  It is very rare for someone to have an allergic reaction to one and not the other.  Can F 1 has little cross-reactivity with proteins from other animals.  Positive results for IgE antibodies to Can F 2 are usually indicative of a specific allergy to dogs.  People with asthma who have an allergy to Can F 2 are more likely to develop severe symptoms.
• Can F 3: Can F 3 is found in dog albumin.  It is a minor allergen and is usually found in 15-35% of people with dog allergies.   There is a high level of cross-reactivity between Can F 3 and allergens from other animals.  People who test positive for IgE antibodies to Can F 3 are likely to be allergic to other types of furry mammals.
• Can F 5: Can F 5 is a protein primarily found in the urine of dogs, in particular male non-neutered dogs.  Studies have suggested that IgE antibodies to Can F 5 may indicate an allergy to male but not female dogs.  About 70% of people with dog allergies will show IgE antibodies to Can F 5.  There is little cross-reactivity between Can F 5 and allergens from other furry animals.

Test results should be interpreted along with a person’s clinical symptoms.  For example, a positive result for dog allergens in a person who shows no allergy symptoms around dogs may be due to cross-reactivity with allergens from another type of animal.

The Dog Allergy Panel is also offered along with a Cat Allergy Panel in our Cat & Dog Allergy Panel Test.  Request A Test also offers a Dog Allergy Blood Test with no reflex testing.  Please see our Allergy Testing Category for more testing options.

Should I Get Tested?

Testing is recommended for people who think they have had symptoms of an allergic reaction after exposure to certain environmental allergens. Allergic symptoms differ from person to person. If you are not sure, it is best to follow up with a physician or allergy specialist before testing.

This test is right for you if you’ve had any of the following symptoms:

• Tingling or itching of your face, lips, tongue, throat, or other body parts
• Hives or eczema
• Wheezing or slight trouble breathing
• Runny nose or watery eyes

This test is not right for you if you’ve had any of the following serious symptoms:

• Constriction and tightening of the airways
• Swollen throat or the sensation of a lump in your throat that makes it difficult to breathe
• Severe drop in blood pressure
• Rapid pulse
• Dizziness, lightheadedness
• Loss of consciousness

If you believe you have experienced any of the above symptoms, we recommend that you follow up with your physician or an allergy specialist before testing.

What will my results tell me?

Your results will only tell you if you have antibodies to the allergens that were tested. Having a positive result does not necessarily mean that you will have allergy symptoms, and this is not sufficient to diagnose an environmental allergy. Additionally, there is a chance that an allergic reaction to an allergen can occur even if the results are negative.

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 Dog Allergy Panel test near me?

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