Gluten Allergy IgE Blood Test

Sample Report Test Code: 2854 Specimen Type: Blood

Description:

Gluten Allergy IgE Test

This test is used to determine if a person may have an allergic reaction to gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye.  Roughly 1 in 30 adults and 1 in 40 children suffer from a Gluten Allergy.  An IgE test looks for antibodies that develop in a person who has a particular allergy.  A gluten allergy can display symptoms similar to other conditions, such as Celiac Disease.  Unlike an allergy, Celiac Disease can do permanent harm to the body if left untreated.  Allergy testing, when a person is experiencing symptoms, can help identify or rule out an allergy as the cause.

Gluten Allergy is typically less severe than other gluten-related conditions like Celiac Disease.  People with Gluten Allergy will often experience abdominal discomfort, bloating, gas, constipation, or diarrhea when they eat products containing gluten.  These symptoms usually stop when a person cuts gluten out of their diet.

What is the difference between Gluten Allergy and Gluten Sensitivity?

While the terms allergy and sensitivity are often used interchangeably, gluten allergy and non-celiac gluten sensitivity are different conditions. 

Allergy:

• A gluten allergy produces IgE antibodies against proteins found in gluten
• Allergy symptoms usually come on quickly after consuming products that contain gluten
• Severe reactions can be life-threatening
• An IgE blood test can typically identify an allergy

Sensitivity:

• Sensitivity does not produce IgE antibodies
• Symptoms often develop more slowly, taking hours or even days after consumption
• Sensitivity does not have the danger of causing anaphylaxis, which can be life-threatening
• There is no definitive lab testing for sensitivity.  It is usually diagnosed by ruling out other conditions, including allergy and celiac disease

A gluten allergy IgE test can be ordered to help determine if someone is allergic to gluten.  This test can also be ordered when a person is testing for Celiac Disease and has had negative results on Celiac-specific antibody tests.  An allergy test can also be ordered prior to Celiac testing to rule out Gluten Allergy as a likely cause of a person’s symptoms.

The Gluten Allergy IgE test typically sees results in 1-3 business days.

Where can I find a Gluten Allergy test near me?

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