Respiratory Allergy Panel Region XVI with Reflexes: OR, WA (central and east)

The Respiratory Allergy Panel Region XVI with Reflexes: OR, WA (central and east) test contains 1 test with 23 biomarkers.

Respiratory Allergy Panel Region XVI with Reflexes: OR, WA (central and east):  This comprehensive respiratory allergy profile is tailored for the unique environmental conditions of the Pacific Northwest, including the northwest region of California, western Oregon, and western Washington. This area is characterized by its diverse flora, varying climates, and environmental factors contributing to specific allergenic exposures. Understanding these allergens is crucial for residents to effectively manage and mitigate their allergy symptoms. Here's how each test can benefit individuals in this region:

Tree Pollen Allergens:

• Alder (T2) IgE: Alder trees are prevalent in cooler, moist climates of the Pacific Northwest. Their pollen is released early in the spring and can cause severe allergic reactions, including sneezing, itchy eyes, and respiratory distress.
• Birch (T3) IgE: Birch is another significant spring allergen, with its pollen known for triggering intense allergic reactions such as allergic rhinitis.
• Cottonwood (T14) IgE: Found near water bodies, cottonwood trees produce pollen and cotton-like seeds in spring, which can exacerbate allergic symptoms.
• Elm (T8) IgE: Elm pollen is typically released in early spring and can lead to symptoms like allergic rhinitis and other respiratory issues.
• Maple (Box Elder) (T1): Maple trees, including box elders, are common and produce allergenic pollen in early spring that can irritate those with respiratory allergies.
• Mountain Cedar (T6) IgE: Although more typical to the central U.S., mountain cedar pollen can also affect this region during its pollination season, causing severe allergic reactions.
• Oak (T7) IgE: Oak pollen is a major allergen in spring, known for its potent ability to trigger allergic reactions.

Grass and Weed Pollen Allergens:

• Timothy Grass (G6) IgE: A prevalent grass allergen in rural and agricultural areas, peaking in late spring and early summer.
• Rough Pigweed (W14) IgE: Thrives in disturbed soils; its pollen is a potent allergen in late summer.
• Russian Thistle (W11) IgE: Known as tumbleweed, its pollen is highly allergenic, especially in arid regions and during windy conditions in late summer and fall.
• Sheep Sorrel (W18) IgE: Common in grassy landscapes, blooming in spring and contributing to seasonal allergies.
• Mugwort (W6) IgE: Known for its late summer to fall pollen, which can cause significant allergic responses.

Mold and Fungal Allergens:

• Alternaria Alternata (M6): Thrives in dry, windy conditions and can exacerbate asthma and seasonal allergies.
• Aspergillus Fumigatus: Found in various environments, this mold can cause respiratory issues, particularly in damp or water-damaged buildings.
• Cladosporium Herbarum: One of the most prevalent molds, known for causing varied allergic reactions both indoors and outdoors.
• Penicillium Notatum (M1): Commonly found indoors, especially in damp areas, and can cause year-round allergies.

Animal Dander and Other Allergens:

• Cat Dander (E1) IgE and Dog Dander (E5) IgE: Significant for identifying allergies to common pets, crucial for pet owners or those exposed to animals regularly.
• Cockroach (I6) IgE: In urban areas, cockroach allergens can trigger asthma and allergies.
• Mouse Urine Proteins: Particularly concerning in both urban and rural settings where exposure can lead to allergic and asthmatic reactions.

General Marker:

• Immunoglobulin E (IgE): Measures the overall level of IgE antibodies, providing an indication of the immune system's sensitivity to various allergens, reflecting general allergic disease presence.

This detailed testing profile allows residents of the Pacific Northwest to identify specific triggers and develop targeted management strategies, potentially improving their quality of life and reducing the severity of allergy symptoms.