Allergy Flexi Panel (Any 5 Parameters) Test: Booking, Price, and Results

This test analyses your blood serum for IgE antibodies produced against each of the 5 allergens you select. The result for each allergen tells you whether your immune system has become sensitised to it.

The allergens available for selection fall into two broad categories:

• Environmental allergens such as house dust mite droppings, pet dander (skin flakes from animals), tree or grass pollen, mould spores, and latex
• Food allergens such as cow's milk, egg, peanut, wheat, fish, shellfish, soya, and certain fruits and vegetables

The test reports a numerical IgE level in kUA/L for each chosen allergen, along with a class grade from 0 to 6. A higher class indicates a greater degree of sensitisation, though it does not directly predict the severity of any reaction.

No special preparation is required for the allergy flexi panel test procedure, but a few steps will help ensure a smooth experience.

Do You Need to Fast?

No fasting is required. You can eat and drink normally before the test. Unlike skin prick tests, this blood test is generally not affected by antihistamine medicines or other allergy treatments.

Practical Tips Before Your Test

Keep the following points in mind before your appointment:

• Bring a detailed clinical history, including your symptoms, previous test results, and any known triggers, as this is required for the test
• Finalise the list of 5 allergens you wish to test for before your appointment, in consultation with your doctor
• Inform the phlebotomist about all medicines you are currently taking
• Drink plenty of water before the test to keep the veins accessible
• Wear a short-sleeved top or a garment with sleeves that roll up easily

Step-by-Step Procedure

Here is what happens during the allergy flexi panel test procedure:

1. A trained phlebotomist will confirm your identity and the 5 allergens selected for testing.
2. A tourniquet (a soft band) is placed around your upper arm to make the vein more visible.
3. The skin over the vein is cleaned with an antiseptic wipe.
4. A small needle is inserted into the vein, and about 3 ml of blood is drawn into a gel tube.
5. The needle is removed, and a small bandage is placed on the puncture site.
6. The blood sample is stored under refrigeration and sent to the laboratory, where serum is separated and analysed for IgE antibodies against each chosen allergen.

Factors That Can Affect Accuracy

Certain conditions and situations may influence your test results:

• A recent severe allergic reaction (it is advisable to wait around four weeks before testing)
• Active parasitic infections, which can raise total IgE levels non-specifically
• Very high total IgE levels (above 2,500 kU/L), which can sometimes cause non-specific binding
• Current smoking
• Recent allergen immunotherapy

General steps that may help reduce allergen exposure and manage your symptoms include:

• Keep your home well ventilated and clean to reduce levels of dust mites, mould, and pet dander
• Read food labels carefully if food allergens have been identified
• Speak with your doctor about an appropriate allergy management plan based on your test findings