Allergy, Mustard Test
About Allergy, Mustard Test
| Field | Value |
|---|---|
| Also Known As | Mustard IgE Test, Mustard Specific IgE, Allergen f89 Mustard, Mustard Allergy Blood Test |
| Sample Type | Serum (venous blood) |
| Fasting Required | No fasting required |
| Report Time | 3 days |
| Recommended For | All ages, males and females with suspected mustard allergy |
| Price | Starting at ₹1,300 |
What Is an Allergy, Mustard Test?
The Allergy, Mustard Test is a blood test that checks whether your immune system reacts to proteins found in mustard seeds. It detects a type of immune protein called IgE antibodies that are produced when someone is sensitised to mustard. Also known as the Mustard IgE Test or Allergen f89, this test is prescribed when a doctor suspects a mustard food allergy based on a patient's symptoms and clinical history. A small blood sample (serum) is collected from a vein in your arm.
What Does an Allergy, Mustard Test Measure?
This test measures the level of mustard-specific IgE antibodies in your blood. IgE antibodies are proteins your immune system makes when it mistakenly identifies a harmless substance, such as mustard protein, as a threat. The key proteins involved in mustard allergy include Sin a 1, Sin a 2, Sin a 3, Sin a 4, and Bra j 1, all found in mustard seeds. The result is reported in kUA/L (kilo-allergen units per litre), which is the internationally accepted unit for specific IgE measurements.
Why Is an Allergy, Mustard Test Done?
A doctor may order this test when a patient shows signs of a possible mustard allergy or to clarify the cause of recurring allergic reactions.
Common Symptoms That May Require This Test
The following symptoms may prompt a doctor to recommend the Allergy, Mustard Test:
- Tingling or itching in the mouth after eating mustard-containing foods
- Hives, skin rash, or generalised itching
- Swelling of the lips, tongue, or throat
- Difficulty breathing or a tight feeling in the chest
- Flushed skin
- Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhoea
- Symptoms of a severe whole-body allergic reaction (anaphylaxis)
Conditions This Test Can Help Detect
This test can help identify or rule out the following:
- Mustard food allergy, a reaction to proteins in mustard seeds, powder, or condiments
- Sensitisation to mustard as part of a broader food allergy evaluation
- Mugwort-mustard allergy syndrome, a cross-reactive condition linked to mugwort pollen sensitivity
- Risk of anaphylaxis in individuals with a history of severe allergic reactions
How to Prepare and What to Expect
No special preparation is needed for this test, but a few simple steps will help ensure a smooth experience.
Do You Need to Fast?
No, fasting is not required for the Allergy, Mustard Test. You can eat and drink normally before your appointment. If your doctor has ordered additional tests alongside this one, check with them separately, as other tests may have different requirements.
Practical Tips Before Your Test
Keep the following in mind before your sample is collected:
- Bring a detailed clinical history including your symptoms, previous test results, and any relevant medical records, as this is required for the test
- Tell your doctor or phlebotomist about all medicines you are currently taking, especially antihistamines, as these may need to be paused before the test (do not stop any medicine without your doctor's guidance)
- Drink enough water beforehand to keep your veins easy to access
- Wear a loose-fitting top or a top with sleeves that roll up easily
- Let the phlebotomist know if you have ever felt faint during a blood draw
Step-by-Step Procedure
Here is what happens during and after your sample collection:
- A trained phlebotomist cleans the skin on your inner arm with an antiseptic wipe.
- A small needle is used to draw approximately 3 ml of blood from a vein in your arm. The process takes less than a minute.
- The needle is removed, and gentle pressure is applied to the site. A small bandage may be placed over it.
- The blood sample is transferred to a yellow SST gel tube and labelled with your details.
- The sample is refrigerated and transported to the laboratory, where the serum is separated and analysed using a FEIA (Fluorescent Enzyme Immunoassay) method.
- Results are reported in kUA/L and classified into grades based on the level of sensitisation detected.
Factors That Can Affect Accuracy
- Use of antihistamine medicines before the test
- Smoking, which can elevate overall IgE levels in the blood
- Active parasitic infections, which may also raise IgE levels
- A recent allergic reaction, which may temporarily alter IgE levels
- Pre-existing atopic conditions such as eczema, asthma, or allergic rhinitis, which can raise baseline IgE
Understanding Your Allergy, Mustard Test Results
Your results will show the level of mustard-specific IgE in your blood and which sensitivity class it falls into. The table below shows the standard reference ranges used for interpreting this test:
| IgE Level (kUA/L) | Class | Interpretation |
|---|---|---|
| Less than 0.35 | 0 | Negative, no sensitisation detected |
| 0.35 to 0.69 | 1 | Low positive, borderline |
| 0.70 to 3.49 | 2 | Moderate positive |
| 3.50 to 17.49 | 3 | High positive |
| 17.50 to 49.99 | 4 | Very high positive |
| 50.00 to 99.99 | 5 | Very high positive |
| 100.00 and above | 6 | Very high positive |
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.
A result below 0.35 kUA/L is considered negative and suggests no detectable sensitisation to mustard. A result above this threshold suggests sensitisation, though the level of IgE does not directly predict how severe a reaction might be.
Results During Special Conditions
- Patients with mugwort pollen allergies may show positive mustard IgE results due to cross-reactivity between the two allergens.
- Similarly, mustard proteins (particularly Sin a 2) may cross-react with IgE antibodies directed at tree nuts and peanuts, which can make interpretation more complex.
- A positive result in the presence of smoking or a parasitic infection should also be considered carefully, as these can raise IgE levels independently.
How to Maintain Healthy Levels
- Avoid mustard in all forms, including seeds, powder, prepared condiments, and mustard greens, as advised by your doctor
- Read packaged food labels carefully, as mustard is a hidden ingredient in many sauces, dressings, pickles, and processed meats
- Follow your doctor's guidance on carrying emergency medication if you have a history of severe allergic reactions
Lupin Diagnostics Allergy, Mustard Test Price and Home Collection
The Allergy, Mustard test cost at Lupin Diagnostics starts at ₹1,300, and home sample collection is available across cities. The table below provides city-wise indicative pricing.
| 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.
How to Book
The Allergy, Mustard test online booking process at Lupin Diagnostics is straightforward:
- 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.
Home Collection
Allergy, Mustard test home collection is available across multiple cities. A certified phlebotomist visits your home or preferred location to collect the blood sample safely. All samples are processed in NABL-accredited laboratories, and reports are delivered digitally for easy access.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Allergy, Mustard test detects mustard-specific IgE antibodies in your blood. It helps confirm whether your immune system is sensitised to mustard proteins. Doctors use the result alongside your clinical history to assess whether you have a mustard food allergy.
No fasting is required. You can eat and drink as usual before your appointment. However, certain medicines such as antihistamines may need to be paused, so always check with your doctor before the test.
The Allergy, Mustard test procedure is a simple blood draw. A phlebotomist collects a small sample from a vein in your arm, which takes less than a minute. The sample is then sent to the laboratory for analysis using the FEIA method.
Yes, this is possible. A negative result does not completely rule out a mustard allergy in all cases. Your doctor may recommend further testing, such as a supervised oral food challenge, if there is still a strong clinical reason to suspect an allergy.
Yes. Certain mustard proteins can cross-react with IgE antibodies to tree nuts and peanuts. People with mugwort pollen allergies may also show positive mustard IgE results. Your doctor will evaluate these cross-reactivities when interpreting your results.
Results for the Allergy, Mustard test are typically ready within 3 days of sample collection. You will receive your report digitally via email or WhatsApp.
Yes, this test is suitable for all age groups, including children. It is a standard blood draw and does not involve any allergen exposure, so there is no risk of triggering an allergic reaction during the test itself.
Allergy, Mustard Test
