Horse Allergy Profile With Component Reflex

Sample Report Test Code: 606656 Specimen Type: Blood

Description:

Horse Allergy Profile With Component Reflex (Labcorp)

The horse allergy profile blood test looks for an allergic reaction to horses.  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 horse allergy may not be able to raise or work with horses.  They also may not be able to live or work near areas where horses are kept.  Common symptoms of an animal 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 horse dander.  In the event of a positive result, additional reflex testing for a specific protein allergen will be performed at no extra cost.  The additional reflex test can help to determine the severity of a person’s allergy and how likely they are to be allergic to other animals.

The reflex horse protein allergy test includes:

• Equ C 1: Equ C 1 is the major horse allergen.  Up to 76% of people with a horse allergy are sensitive to the protein Equ C 1.  There is a structural similarity between Equ C 1 and proteins from other animals such as cats, dogs, rabbits, rats, and mice.  This means there is a high likelihood that someone who is allergic to horses will also be allergic to other animals.

Test results should be interpreted along with a person’s clinical symptoms.  Additional testing for allergies to other types of animals may be needed as a follow-up.

Request A Test also offers a Horse 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 Horse Allergy panel near me?

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