Gerbil Allergy Blood Test
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Test Code: 602710
Specimen Type: Blood
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Description:
Gerbil Allergy Blood Test (Labcorp)
This test measures a person's allergic reaction to proteins in the fur, dander, saliva, and urine of gerbils. Gerbils are small rodents that are commonly kept as pets. Common allergy symptoms include itchy watery eyes, sneezing, coughing, sore throat, itching, rash, and hives. People with a severe reaction may have difficulty breathing and may experience anaphylaxis which can be fatal if not treated quickly.
In some cases, the allergies of pet owners may be misattributed to an animal when the source of the allergy is actually the bedding in their cage or enclosure. The grass or hay commonly used in pet enclosures can cause allergic reactions as well.
Allergies are caused by a reaction in the body's immune system. The body identifies certain substances as harmful and produces IgE antibodies against them. These antibodies trigger the release of histamine which causes the symptoms of an allergic reaction. The severity of the allergy will vary from one person to the next. Blood allergy testing provides numerical results for IgE antibody levels to help determine how severe a reaction a person will have. Positive allergy test results should be discussed with a person's doctor to determine the appropriate follow-up.
This test is typically ordered when someone experiences allergy symptoms after being in contact with a gerbil. Testing can also be ordered before getting a gerbil as a pet. For more options, please see our allergy testing category.
Turnaround for this test is typically 2-5 business days.
Where can I find a gerbil allergy 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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