What blood test shows an allergy to cats? - briefly
To determine if someone is allergic to cats, a specific immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibody test can be performed. This test measures the level of IgE antibodies in the blood that are specific to cat allergens.
What blood test shows an allergy to cats? - in detail
To determine if someone has an allergy to cats, healthcare professionals often rely on specific blood tests that measure the levels of certain antibodies and allergens in the body. One of the most commonly used blood tests for diagnosing cat allergies is the Immunoglobulin E (IgE) test.
The IgE antibody plays a crucial role in allergic reactions. When exposed to an allergen, such as cat dander, the immune system produces IgE antibodies specific to that allergen. The IgE test can detect these allergen-specific IgE antibodies in the blood, providing valuable information about potential allergies.
In the case of a cat allergy, the blood test will specifically look for IgE antibodies to cat dander and other cat-related proteins. These proteins, known as Fel d 1, are responsible for triggering allergic reactions in many individuals. The level of IgE antibodies to these allergens can indicate the severity and likelihood of an allergic response when exposed to cats.
Additionally, some laboratories may perform a total IgE test alongside the specific IgE test. While the specific IgE test identifies the exact allergen causing the reaction, the total IgE test measures the overall level of IgE antibodies in the blood. Elevated levels of total IgE can suggest an increased likelihood of allergic reactions to multiple substances, although it does not specify which allergens are involved.
It is important to note that while blood tests can be helpful in diagnosing cat allergies, they should be interpreted in conjunction with a patient's medical history and symptoms. A healthcare provider may also recommend other diagnostic methods, such as skin prick tests or elimination diets, to confirm the presence of an allergy and its specific triggers.
In summary, blood tests that detect IgE antibodies to cat dander and related proteins are instrumental in diagnosing cat allergies. These tests provide a precise measurement of the immune system's response to feline allergens, helping healthcare professionals to accurately identify and manage allergy symptoms.