Food Allergy Panel (REFL)

The Food Allergy Panel (REFL) test contains 1 test with 12 biomarkers .

Brief Description: The Food Allergy Profile test is a specialized laboratory assay designed to assess an individual's immune response to specific foods. This comprehensive panel aids in the identification of allergens that could trigger adverse reactions in the body.

Also Known As: Food Allergy Panel. Food Allergy Test

Collection Method: Blood Draw 
Specimen Type: Serum 

Test Preparation: No preparation required

When and Why the Food Allergy Panel May Be Ordered

The Food Allergy Panel is typically ordered when a patient exhibits symptoms suggestive of a food allergy, such as hives, swelling, gastrointestinal distress, respiratory issues, or anaphylaxis. It may also be ordered if a patient has a known food allergy and needs to monitor their sensitivity over time or if there is a family history of food allergies. Additionally, the panel can be used to confirm or rule out food allergies in cases where skin prick tests or elimination diets are inconclusive. Early diagnosis through this panel can prevent severe allergic reactions and improve the patient's quality of life.

What the Food Allergy Panel Checks For

The Food Allergy Panel checks for the presence of IgE antibodies specific to a range of common food allergens. Each test within the panel measures the immune system's response to a particular food, indicating whether the patient is allergic to it. The panel includes tests for allergens such as shellfish, dairy, nuts, grains, and legumes, among others. These tests are highly sensitive and can detect even low levels of IgE antibodies, providing a detailed picture of the patient's allergic profile.

Clam IgE (f207)

This test measures IgE antibodies specific to clams, a type of shellfish. It helps diagnose shellfish allergies, which can cause severe reactions, including anaphylaxis.

Codfish IgE (f3)

This test detects IgE antibodies to codfish, a common allergen in fish-sensitive individuals. It is crucial for diagnosing fish allergies, which can be life-threatening.

Cow's Milk IgE (f2) (REFL)

This test measures IgE antibodies to cow's milk proteins. It is essential for diagnosing milk allergies, particularly in children, who may outgrow this allergy over time.

Egg White IgE (f1) (REFL)

This test detects IgE antibodies to egg white proteins. It is used to diagnose egg allergies, which are common in children and can cause reactions ranging from mild to severe.

Maize/Corn IgE (f8)

This test measures IgE antibodies to maize or corn. It helps diagnose corn allergies, which can cause gastrointestinal and respiratory symptoms.

Peanut IgE (f13)

This test detects IgE antibodies to peanuts, one of the most common and severe food allergens. It is crucial for diagnosing peanut allergies, which can cause anaphylaxis.

Scallop IgE (f338)*

This test measures IgE antibodies to scallops, another type of shellfish. It helps diagnose shellfish allergies, which can cause severe reactions.

Sesame Seed IgE (f10)

This test detects IgE antibodies to sesame seeds. It is used to diagnose sesame allergies, which are becoming increasingly recognized as a significant allergen.

Shrimp IgE (f24)

This test measures IgE antibodies to shrimp, a common shellfish allergen. It helps diagnose shellfish allergies, which can cause severe reactions.

Soybean IgE (f14)

This test detects IgE antibodies to soybeans. It is used to diagnose soy allergies, which can cause gastrointestinal and respiratory symptoms.

Walnut IgE (f256)

This test measures IgE antibodies to walnuts. It helps diagnose tree nut allergies, which can cause severe reactions, including anaphylaxis.

Wheat IgE (f4)

This test detects IgE antibodies to wheat. It is used to diagnose wheat allergies, which can cause gastrointestinal and respiratory symptoms.

Conditions or Diseases the Food Allergy Panel Can Detect

The Food Allergy Panel is instrumental in diagnosing various food allergies and related conditions. Food allergies occur when the immune system mistakenly identifies a specific food protein as harmful and produces IgE antibodies against it. This panel helps identify these specific allergens, enabling healthcare professionals to diagnose and manage food allergies effectively.

IgE-Mediated Food Allergy

IgE-mediated food allergies are the most common type of food allergy and involve the immune system producing IgE antibodies in response to specific food proteins. Symptoms can range from mild (hives, itching) to severe (anaphylaxis). The Food Allergy Panel detects these IgE antibodies, confirming the presence of an IgE-mediated food allergy.

Oral Allergy Syndrome (OAS)

Oral Allergy Syndrome is a condition where individuals experience allergic reactions in the mouth and throat after consuming certain raw fruits, vegetables, or nuts. It is often linked to pollen allergies. The Food Allergy Panel can help identify cross-reactive food allergens that trigger OAS.

Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EoE)

Eosinophilic Esophagitis is a chronic immune system disease where eosinophils (a type of white blood cell) build up in the esophagus, causing inflammation and difficulty swallowing. Food allergies are a common trigger for EoE. The Food Allergy Panel can identify specific food allergens that may be contributing to the condition.

Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema)

Atopic Dermatitis, or eczema, is a chronic skin condition characterized by itchy, inflamed skin. Food allergies can exacerbate eczema symptoms, particularly in children. The Food Allergy Panel can help identify food allergens that may be triggering or worsening eczema.

How Healthcare Professionals Use the Results of the Food Allergy Panel

The results of the Food Allergy Panel provide critical information that healthcare professionals use to develop personalized treatment and management plans for patients with food allergies. By identifying specific allergens, healthcare providers can recommend dietary changes, prescribe medications, and provide guidance on avoiding allergens to prevent allergic reactions.

IgE-Mediated Food Allergy

For patients diagnosed with IgE-mediated food allergies, healthcare professionals may recommend strict avoidance of the identified allergens. They may also prescribe emergency medications, such as epinephrine auto-injectors, for use in case of accidental exposure. Regular follow-up and monitoring may be necessary to assess the patient's sensitivity over time.

Oral Allergy Syndrome (OAS)

In cases of Oral Allergy Syndrome, healthcare professionals may advise patients to avoid raw forms of the identified allergens or to cook them, as heat can denature the proteins responsible for the allergic reaction. They may also recommend antihistamines to manage mild symptoms.

Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EoE)

For patients with Eosinophilic Esophagitis, identifying and eliminating specific food allergens can significantly reduce symptoms. Healthcare professionals may recommend an elimination diet based on the panel results and monitor the patient's response. In some cases, medications such as corticosteroids may be prescribed to manage inflammation.

Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema)

In patients with Atopic Dermatitis, identifying and avoiding food allergens can help reduce skin inflammation and improve overall skin health. Healthcare professionals may recommend topical treatments, such as corticosteroids or emollients, and advise on dietary modifications to manage eczema symptoms.

Conclusion

The Food Allergy Panel is a vital diagnostic tool for identifying specific food allergies and related conditions. By measuring IgE antibodies to common food allergens, the panel provides detailed information that helps healthcare professionals diagnose and manage food allergies effectively. Early and accurate diagnosis through this panel can prevent severe allergic reactions, improve the patient's quality of life, and guide personalized treatment plans. Whether used for initial diagnosis or ongoing monitoring, the Food Allergy Panel plays a crucial role in the comprehensive care of patients with food allergies.