Allergy, Johnson Grass Test: Booking, Price, and Results
About Allergy, Johnson Grass Test
| Field | Value |
|---|---|
| Also Known As | Johnson Grass IgE Test, Sorghum Grass Allergy Test, g10 Allergy Test, Jowar Grass Allergy Test |
| Sample Type | Serum (blood) |
| Fasting Required | No fasting required |
| Report Time | 3 days |
| Recommended For | All ages, males and females |
| Price | Starting at ₹1,300 |
What is an Allergy, Johnson Grass Test?
The Allergy, Johnson grass test measures specific IgE (Immunoglobulin E) antibodies in your blood against Johnson grass pollen. IgE antibodies are immune proteins your body produces when it reacts to a substance it mistakenly identifies as harmful. Doctors order this test when a patient has symptoms that suggest a sensitivity to this common grass. It is also known as the Johnson grass IgE test or the Sorghum grass allergy test.
What Does an Allergy, Johnson Grass Test Measure?
This test analyses one specific marker in your blood. Here is what it detects and why it matters:
| Parameter | What it Tells You |
|---|---|
| Specific IgE antibodies to Johnson grass | Indicates whether your immune system has reacted to proteins in Johnson grass pollen (Sorghum halepense) |
When your body encounters an allergen, it may produce IgE antibodies in response. These antibodies then trigger the release of histamine, which is the chemical responsible for typical allergy symptoms such as sneezing, itching, and a runny nose.
Why is an Allergy, Johnson Grass Test Done?
This test is used to identify whether Johnson grass pollen is behind your allergy symptoms. It can also guide doctors in planning further care.
Common Symptoms That May Require This Test
- Runny or blocked nose
- Watery, itchy eyes
- Frequent sneezing
- Itching in the throat or mouth
- Postnasal drip (a feeling of mucus running down the back of the throat)
- Cough or shortness of breath
- Hives or skin irritation
Conditions This Test Can Help Detect
- Allergic rhinitis, commonly called hay fever, affecting the nose, eyes, and throat
- Asthma triggered or worsened by grass pollen exposure
- Sensitisation to Johnson grass before starting immunotherapy (a treatment that gradually reduces allergic response)
- The specific allergen responsible for a severe allergic episode (anaphylaxis)
How to Prepare and What to Expect
No complex preparation is needed for this test. A few simple steps will help make the process smooth.
Do You Need to Fast?
No, fasting is not required before the Allergy, Johnson grass test. You can eat and drink normally before the appointment.
Practical Tips Before Your Test
- Bring a detailed clinical history, including your symptoms, previous test results, and relevant family history, as this is required for the test.
- Tell your doctor about any antihistamines or allergy medications you are taking, as these may need to be stopped before testing.
- Inform your doctor about all other medications you currently take.
- Avoid applying lotion or cream to your arm before the blood draw.
- Stay well hydrated, as this makes the veins easier to access.
Step-by-Step Procedure
- A trained phlebotomist (a person trained to collect blood samples) will ask you to sit comfortably and extend your arm.
- An elastic band (tourniquet) is tied around your upper arm to make the vein more visible.
- The puncture site on your arm is cleaned with an antiseptic wipe.
- A sterile needle is used to draw a small blood sample, which is collected into a yellow-top gel tube.
- The needle is removed, and gentle pressure is applied to the site, followed by a small bandage.
- The sample is stored under refrigeration and sent to the laboratory for analysis using the FEIA (Fluorescent Enzyme Immunoassay) method.
Factors That Can Affect Accuracy
Several factors may influence your test results. These include:
- Recent use of antihistamines or allergy medications
- Very high total IgE levels in the blood (above 2,500 kU/L), which can sometimes cause a false-positive result
- Timing of the test relative to recent allergen exposure
- Improper sample handling or storage
- Current infections or other health conditions at the time of testing
Understanding Your Allergy, Johnson Grass Test Results
Your results will be reported as a class and a corresponding IgE level in kU/L (kilounits per litre). The table below outlines what each class means.
| Class | IgE Level (kU/L) | Interpretation |
|---|---|---|
| Class 0 | Less than 0.35 | Negative |
| Class 1 | 0.35 to 0.70 | Weak positive |
| Class 2 | 0.70 to 3.5 | Positive |
| Class 3 | 3.5 to 17.5 | Positive |
| Class 4 | 17.5 to 52.5 | Strong positive |
| Class 5 | 52.5 to 100 | Strong positive |
| Class 6 | Greater than 100 | Strong positive |
A result of Class 2 or above (0.70 kU/L or more) is considered abnormally elevated. Results at Class 1 or above indicate that the immune system has been sensitised to Johnson grass allergens and may react upon exposure.
Disclaimer: These ranges are general guidelines. Your doctor will interpret your results based on your age, health history, and other factors. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalised medical advice.
Results During Special Conditions
Certain situations can affect how your results should be read:
- A total serum IgE level above 2,500 kU/L can cause nonspecific binding, leading to a false-positive result for Johnson grass. Your doctor will take this into account when reviewing your report.
- Many people with a Johnson grass allergy also react to other grass, weed, or tree pollens due to cross-reactivity. Cross-reactivity can also extend to certain foods, including melon, watermelon, citrus, banana, and pineapple, causing what is known as oral allergy syndrome (OAS), where the mouth feels tingly or itchy after eating these foods.
How to Maintain Healthy Levels
These general wellness tips can help reduce your exposure to Johnson grass pollen:
- Stay indoors on high pollen days and keep windows closed. Use air conditioning where possible.
- Monitor pollen forecasts, especially during peak season from mid-May through August.
- Wear a protective mask when outdoors during high pollen periods, and shower after returning home.
Lupin Diagnostics Allergy, Johnson Grass Test Price and Home Collection
The Allergy, Johnson grass test is priced starting at ₹1,300 at Lupin Diagnostics, with home collection available across cities. The table below lists indicative prices across major cities.
| City | Approximate Price (₹) |
|---|---|
| BHOPAL | 1300 |
| CHENNAI | 1300 |
| HYDERABAD | 1300 |
| KOLKATA | 1300 |
| NAVI MUMBAI | 1300 |
| PUNE | 1300 |
Prices are indicative and may vary by location. Please confirm the current price at the time of booking.
Home Collection
Lupin Diagnostics offers home sample collection for the Allergy, Johnson grass test across multiple cities. All samples are processed in NABL-accredited laboratories by trained professionals. Your digital report is delivered securely to your email or WhatsApp within 3 days of collection.
How to Book
Follow these steps for Allergy, Johnson grass test online booking:
- Select the test on the Lupin Diagnostics website.
- Choose your city and preferred time slot.
- Opt for home sample collection by a certified phlebotomist, or visit your nearest Lupin Diagnostics centre.
- Receive your report via email or WhatsApp within the stipulated turnaround time.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Allergy, Johnson grass test is a blood test that checks for specific IgE antibodies against Johnson grass pollen. It helps confirm whether your immune system is sensitised to this allergen. The test is useful for diagnosing hay fever, allergic asthma, and related conditions linked to grass pollen.
This test is recommended for anyone experiencing seasonal allergy symptoms, particularly during late spring and summer. If you notice a runny nose, itchy eyes, or sneezing that worsens outdoors, your doctor may order the Allergy, Johnson grass test to identify the trigger.
Johnson grass pollen levels typically rise from mid-May and can remain elevated until August. Pollen counts tend to peak in June. If your symptoms follow this seasonal pattern, testing during or just after the season can help confirm a diagnosis.
Yes. Due to cross-reactivity, people with a Johnson grass allergy often react to pollen from other grasses, weeds, and trees as well. Your doctor may suggest testing for a broader panel of grass allergens to get a complete picture.
Oral allergy syndrome (OAS) occurs when your immune system confuses proteins in certain foods with those in Johnson grass pollen. This can cause tingling or itching in the mouth after eating foods such as melon, banana, citrus, or pineapple. If you experience these symptoms, mention them to your doctor.
You do not need to fast, but you should let your doctor know about any antihistamines or allergy medications you are taking. Your doctor may advise you to stop these before the test, as they can affect the results. Do not stop any prescribed medication without consulting your doctor first.
You can book the test through the Lupin Diagnostics website by selecting the test, choosing your city, and picking a convenient time. A phlebotomist will visit your home for sample collection, or you can visit a nearby diagnostic centre.
Allergy, Johnson Grass Test: Booking, Price, and Results
