Allergen specific IgE; qualitative, multiallergen screen (eg, disk, sponge, card)
CPT4 code
Name of the Procedure:
Allergen Specific IgE; Qualitative, Multiallergen Screen (e.g., disk, sponge, card)
Summary
This procedure involves testing a small sample of your blood to identify allergies to a variety of substances. It checks for specific IgE antibodies in response to different allergens using a method like disks, sponges, or cards.
Purpose
Medical Condition or Problem:
This test helps diagnose allergies by determining if your immune system reacts to specific allergens.
Goals or Expected Outcomes:
The goal is to identify substances you are allergic to so you can avoid them and manage your symptoms more effectively.
Indications
Symptoms or Conditions:
- Frequent sneezing
- Itchy or watery eyes
- Rashes or hives
- Respiratory issues like asthma
- Unexplained gastrointestinal symptoms
Patient Criteria:
- Individuals with persistent allergy symptoms
- Patients with a family history of allergies
- Those who have tried other allergy tests with inconclusive results
Preparation
- No special preparation like fasting is typically required.
- You should inform your healthcare provider about any medications you are taking, as certain drugs can affect the test results.
Procedure Description
- A small amount of blood is drawn from a vein in your arm.
- The blood sample is exposed to various allergens attached to a disk, sponge, or card.
- The test measures the presence of IgE antibodies that are specific to each allergen.
Tools, Equipment, or Technology:
- Blood-drawing equipment (e.g., needles, syringes)
- Multiallergen screening tools (e.g., disks, sponges, cards)
- Laboratory analysis equipment
Anesthesia or Sedation:
- Not required.
Duration
The blood draw takes around 5-10 minutes. The total testing process, including lab analysis, can take a few days for results.
Setting
The blood sample collection is typically done in an outpatient clinic, hospital, or diagnostic lab.
Personnel
- Phlebotomist or nurse for drawing blood
- Laboratory technician for test analysis
Risks and Complications
Common Risks:
- Minor pain or bruising at the needle site ##### Rare Complications:
- Infection at the needle site
- Fainting or dizziness
Benefits
- Helps to identify and manage allergies by avoiding specific allergens.
- Improves quality of life by reducing allergy symptoms.
- Results are usually available within a few days.
Recovery
- Minimal recovery needed; you can resume normal activities immediately.
- Follow any specific instructions given by your healthcare provider regarding medication adjustments post-test.
Alternatives
Other Treatment Options:
- Skin prick testing
- Elimination diets followed by food challenges ##### Pros and Cons:
- Skin prick testing is quicker but may be uncomfortable.
- Elimination diets take longer but are non-invasive.
Patient Experience
During the Procedure:
- You may feel a small pinch or sting when the needle is inserted. ##### After the Procedure:
- Slight soreness or bruising at the puncture site is possible.
- There is minimal discomfort, and normal activities can be resumed immediately.