Gluten (f79) IgE

The Gluten (f79) IgE test contains 1 test with 1 biomarker.

Brief Description: The Gluten F79 IgE test is a laboratory test that measures the amount of specific IgE antibodies against gluten present in the blood. Immunoglobulin E (IgE) is a class of antibodies produced by the immune system, primarily in response to allergens.

Collection Method: Blood Draw

Specimen Type: Serum

Test Preparation: No preparation required

When and Why a Gluten F79 IgE Test May Be Ordered

A Gluten F79 IgE test may be ordered in the following circumstances:

• Allergy Symptoms: If a person presents with symptoms suggestive of an allergy after consuming gluten-containing products, such as hives, asthma, or anaphylaxis.

• History of Allergic Reactions: For individuals with a history of allergic reactions after consuming certain foods, especially when it's unclear which food component might be responsible.

• Differentiation: To distinguish between celiac disease, a gluten-sensitive autoimmune disorder, and a gluten allergy, which involves an IgE-mediated response.

What the Gluten F79 IgE Test Checks For

The test specifically evaluates:

• Presence of Specific IgE Antibodies: A positive result indicates the presence of IgE antibodies that specifically target gluten, suggesting an allergic response to gluten.

Other Lab Tests Ordered Alongside the Gluten F79 IgE Test

When a Gluten F79 IgE Antibodies test is ordered, it's often part of a broader evaluation of food allergies and related gastrointestinal conditions. Here are some tests commonly ordered alongside it:

1. Total IgE:

   • Purpose: To measure the overall level of IgE antibodies in the blood.
   • Why Is It Ordered: Elevated total IgE levels can suggest a heightened allergic response, supporting the findings of specific food allergies, including gluten.

2. Other Specific IgE Food Allergy Tests:

   • Purpose: To identify allergic sensitivities to other common food allergens, such as peanuts, eggs, soy, or milk.
   • Why Is It Ordered: To assess for multiple food allergies, which can coexist with a gluten allergy.

3. Complete Blood Count (CBC) with Differential:

   • Purpose: To evaluate overall blood health.
   • Why Is It Ordered: To check for eosinophilia, which can be associated with allergic reactions.

4. Celiac Disease Serology (tTG-IgA, etc.):

   • Purpose: To test for antibodies typically present in celiac disease.
   • Why Is It Ordered: To rule out celiac disease as a cause of symptoms, especially if gastrointestinal symptoms are present.

5. Serum Electrolytes and Renal Function Tests:

   • Purpose: To measure levels of key electrolytes and assess kidney function.
   • Why Is It Ordered: To check for dehydration or electrolyte imbalances that can occur with chronic gastrointestinal symptoms associated with food allergies.

These tests, when ordered alongside a Gluten F79 IgE Antibodies test, provide a comprehensive evaluation of a person’s allergic profile and help in managing conditions related to food allergies. They are important for identifying specific allergic triggers, understanding the severity of allergic conditions, and guiding dietary management and treatment strategies. The specific combination of tests will depend on the individual’s symptoms, clinical presentation, and history of allergic reactions.

Conditions or Diseases that Require a Gluten F79 IgE Test

• Gluten Allergy: Unlike celiac disease, which is an autoimmune response to gluten, a gluten allergy involves an IgE-mediated immune response and can result in symptoms soon after gluten ingestion.

• Wheat Allergy: Gluten is a protein found in wheat, and sometimes a gluten-specific IgE test can provide insight into a broader wheat allergy.

Usage of Gluten F79 IgE Test Results by Health Care Providers

• Diagnostic Value: A positive result confirms an allergic response to gluten, helping in the diagnosis of gluten or wheat allergy.

• Treatment Planning: Based on the severity of the allergic response and the levels of IgE, doctors can prescribe treatments ranging from avoidance strategies to medications or even emergency treatments like epinephrine.

• Differential Diagnosis: Helps in distinguishing between celiac disease and gluten allergy. While both involve reactions to gluten, the underlying mechanisms, symptoms, and treatments differ.

In conclusion, the Gluten F79 IgE test is an important tool for identifying and managing gluten or wheat allergies. By measuring the IgE antibodies specific to gluten, health care providers can pinpoint the cause of allergic reactions, enabling more precise and effective interventions.

Most Common Questions About the Gluten F79 IgE test:

Purpose and Indications of the Gluten F79 IgE Test

What is the primary purpose of the Gluten F79 IgE test?

The Gluten F79 IgE test is primarily used to detect an allergic response to gluten. Elevated levels of IgE antibodies specific to gluten (F79) can indicate an allergic reaction rather than an autoimmune reaction, which is seen in conditions like celiac disease.

Why would someone get the Gluten F79 IgE test instead of or in addition to other gluten sensitivity tests?

The Gluten F79 IgE test specifically looks for an allergic response to gluten, which is different from gluten sensitivity or celiac disease. While celiac disease involves an autoimmune response, a gluten allergy involves an allergic reaction. The test can help differentiate between these reactions, guiding appropriate dietary and medical management.

Interpreting the Results

What does a positive Gluten F79 IgE test indicate?

A positive result indicates the presence of IgE antibodies specific to gluten, suggesting an allergic reaction to gluten. This could mean the individual may experience symptoms like hives, itching, or even anaphylaxis upon gluten consumption.

If the Gluten F79 IgE test is negative but a person still experiences symptoms upon consuming gluten, what might be the reason?

A negative Gluten F79 IgE test indicates that the person doesn't have an allergic reaction to gluten. However, they might still have non-allergic gluten sensitivity or celiac disease. It's important to consult with a healthcare professional and consider other tests to diagnose the cause of the symptoms accurately.

Implications and Management

What dietary recommendations might be given to someone with a positive Gluten F79 IgE test result?

Individuals with a positive test result are advised to avoid foods containing gluten to prevent allergic reactions. This includes foods with wheat, barley, rye, and their derivatives. It's also essential to read food labels carefully and be aware of potential cross-contamination.

How does the Gluten F79 IgE test differentiate between celiac disease and a gluten allergy?

The Gluten F79 IgE test specifically measures IgE antibodies, which are associated with allergic reactions. Celiac disease, on the other hand, involves an autoimmune response and is typically diagnosed through other tests that measure different antibodies (e.g., tTG-IgA) and sometimes confirmed with a small intestine biopsy.

Test Mechanisms and Specifics

How is the Gluten F79 IgE test different from general IgE allergy tests?

The Gluten F79 IgE test specifically measures IgE antibodies to gluten. In contrast, general IgE allergy tests might measure IgE levels in response to various allergens, including pollen, pet dander, or different foods.

Are there other conditions or foods that can cause an elevated Gluten F79 IgE result?

While the test is specific to gluten, there can be instances of cross-reactivity with other proteins. However, these instances are rare. If someone is consuming foods labeled gluten-free but still experiencing allergic reactions, it might be due to cross-contamination or sensitivity to another ingredient in the food.

Additional Information

How often should someone with a positive Gluten F79 IgE test be retested?

The need for retesting depends on the individual's clinical scenario. If symptoms are well-controlled with a gluten-free diet and there's no suspicion of accidental gluten ingestion, routine retesting might not be necessary. However, if there's doubt about the initial diagnosis, or if the person wishes to reintroduce gluten into their diet, retesting might be considered.

If someone has both celiac disease and a positive Gluten F79 IgE test, how is their condition managed?

Having both celiac disease and a gluten allergy is rare but possible. Management would involve a strict gluten-free diet to address both the autoimmune and allergic reactions. It would be crucial to monitor for and manage symptoms of both conditions and to work closely with healthcare professionals specializing in gastroenterology and allergy/immunology.

We advise having your results reviewed by a licensed medical healthcare professional for proper interpretation of your results.