Allergy Blood Tests
Specific IgE blood tests (RAST/ImmunoCAP) to measure your child's allergic sensitisation to individual foods and environmental triggers. Particularly useful when skin prick testing is not possible.
Specific IgE blood tests (RAST/ImmunoCAP/ ALEX) measure the level of allergen-specific antibodies in your child's blood. They complement skin prick testing and are particularly useful when antihistamines cannot be stopped, when eczema affects large areas of skin, or in very young children.
Results are reviewed with you in a follow-up consultation.
Component testing
For complex allergy e.g. peanut allergy, Dr Sood can request component-resolved diagnostics (CRD), testing for specific proteins such as storage proteins, which helps predict risk and guide decisions about oral immunotherapy eligibility.
If your child is having a severe allergic reaction, call 999 immediately or go to your nearest A&E. Do not wait. Always carry prescribed emergency medication as directed by your doctor.
Frequently asked questions
No. Unlike skin prick testing, antihistamines do not affect specific IgE blood test results.
A raised specific IgE indicates sensitisation, not necessarily clinical allergy. Dr Sood interprets results alongside your child's clinical history to determine whether allergy is present and what management is appropriate.
Ready to discuss oral immunotherapy?
Book a consultation to discuss whether OIT is right for your child. Consultations available on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays.