Allergy, Pistachio Test: Booking, Price, and Results
About Allergy, Pistachio Test: Booking, Price, and Results
| Field | Value |
|---|---|
| Also Known As | Pistachio IgE Test, Pistachio Nut Allergy Test, Pistachio Specific IgE, f203 Pistachio |
| Sample Type | Serum (venous blood) |
| Fasting Required | No fasting required |
| Report Time | 3 days |
| Recommended For | All ages; anyone experiencing allergic symptoms after consuming Pistachios |
| Price | Starting at ₹1,400 |
What is an Allergy, Pistachio Test?
The Allergy, Pistachio test is a blood test that checks whether your immune system is reacting to proteins found in Pistachios. It does this by measuring Pistachio-specific IgE (Immunoglobulin E) antibodies in a serum sample. Doctors typically prescribe this test when a patient reports symptoms after eating Pistachios or Pistachio-containing foods. It is also known as the Pistachio IgE test or Pistachio Nut Allergy Test.
What Does an Allergy, Pistachio Test Measure?
This test identifies IgE antibodies that your immune system produces when it mistakenly treats Pistachio proteins as harmful. The key proteins involved are listed below.
| Allergen Component | Description |
|---|---|
| Pis v 1 (2S albumin) | A seed storage protein; one of the primary Pistachio allergens |
| Pis v 2 (11S legumin) | A storage protein linked to IgE reactivity in sensitised individuals |
| Pis v 3 (7S vicilin) | Another seed storage protein contributing to allergic reactions |
| Pis v 4 (manganese superoxide dismutase) | An enzyme protein associated with cross-reactive allergic responses |
| Pis v 5 (11S legumin) | Works alongside Pis v 2 and accounts for a significant proportion of IgE binding |
Together, these components explain much of the allergic reactivity observed in Pistachio-sensitised patients.
Why is an Allergy, Pistachio Test Done?
A doctor may order this test to confirm whether Pistachios are causing your symptoms or to rule them out as a cause. Here is a closer look at when and why this test is used.
Common Symptoms That May Require This Test
The following symptoms, when they appear after eating Pistachios, are common reasons a doctor may request the Allergy, Pistachio test:
- Itching or tingling in the mouth, tongue, or throat
- Hives, raised red rash, or urticaria (nettle rash) on the skin
- Swelling of the lips, face, or area around the eyes
- Nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, or diarrhoea
- Runny nose, sneezing, or watery eyes
- Difficulty breathing or tightness in the chest
Conditions This Test Can Help Detect
This test can provide useful information for identifying the following conditions:
- Pistachio allergy causing reactions such as hives, swelling, or breathing difficulties
- Tree nut allergy, of which Pistachio is one of the most frequently implicated types
- Pollen Food Allergy Syndrome (also called Oral Allergy Syndrome), where similar proteins in food and pollen trigger an itchy mouth or throat
How to Prepare and What to Expect
No special preparation is needed for this test. However, there are a few steps you can take to ensure a smooth experience.
Do You Need to Fast?
No. Fasting is not required before the Allergy, Pistachio test. You can eat and drink normally before your appointment.
Practical Tips Before Your Test
Keep the following in mind before attending your appointment:
- Bring a detailed clinical history, including your symptoms, when they occur, previous allergy test results, and family history, as this is required for the test
- Inform your doctor about any medications you are taking, particularly antihistamines, as these may affect results
- Maintain your usual diet before the test; no dietary changes are necessary
- Keep a record of any allergic episodes, including what you ate and when symptoms appeared
- Bring any previous allergy test reports for reference
Step-by-Step Procedure
The sample collection for this test is a straightforward blood draw. Here is what to expect:
- A trained phlebotomist (blood collection specialist) cleans the skin at the venepuncture site, usually the inside of the elbow.
- A small needle is used to draw a blood sample from a vein in your arm; the whole process takes only a few minutes.
- The blood is collected in a yellow SST gel tube (approximately 3 ml).
- The sample is centrifuged to separate the serum from the other blood components.
- The serum is stored at 2 to 8°C and transported to the laboratory under refrigerated conditions.
- The sample is analysed using Fluorescence Enzyme Immunoassay (FEIA), a method that accurately detects the levels of Pistachio-specific IgE antibodies.
Factors That Can Affect Accuracy
Several factors may influence how your results are interpreted:
- Antihistamine use before the test may affect IgE levels
- A very recent allergic reaction can temporarily alter antibody levels
- Cross-reactivity with cashew or mango seed proteins may influence the result
- The absence of IgE antibodies does not completely exclude the possibility of an allergic reaction
- Results must always be reviewed alongside your clinical history and symptom record
Understanding Your Allergy, Pistachio Test Results
Your doctor will review your result alongside your symptoms and medical history to form a complete picture. The table below shows general reference ranges for Pistachio-specific IgE.
| Result Level | IgE Concentration | Interpretation |
|---|---|---|
| Negative | Less than 0.35 kU/L | No sensitisation detected |
| Low positive / Equivocal | 0.35 to 0.69 kU/L | Low-level sensitisation; clinical correlation needed |
| Positive (Class 2 and above) | 0.70 kU/L or more | Sensitisation to Pistachio detected |
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
Pistachios and cashews belong to the same plant family, and their proteins are structurally similar.
- If you test positive for Pistachio, your doctor may also evaluate you for cashew allergy. Cross-reactivity with mango seed proteins has also been documented, though this does not apply to mango pulp.
- A positive IgE result confirms sensitisation but does not predict how severe a reaction will be. Your doctor will use your clinical history alongside the result to make a full assessment.
How to Maintain Healthy Levels
The following general tips may help if you have been diagnosed with a Pistachio allergy:
- Avoid Pistachios and products that contain them, including certain baked goods, confectionery, and sauces
- Read food ingredient labels carefully, as Pistachios are sometimes listed under alternative names or included in mixed nut products
- Ask your doctor about whether cashews and related tree nuts should also be avoided, given the known cross-reactivity
Lupin Diagnostics Allergy, Pistachio Test Price and Home Collection
The Allergy, Pistachio test cost at Lupin Diagnostics starts at ₹1,400, and home sample collection is available across multiple cities in India.
| City | Approximate Price (₹) |
|---|---|
| BHOPAL | 1400 |
| CHENNAI | 1400 |
| HYDERABAD | 1400 |
| KOLKATA | 1400 |
| NAVI MUMBAI | 1400 |
| PUNE | 1400 |
Prices are indicative and may vary by location. Please confirm the current price at the time of booking.
How to Book
Booking your Allergy, Pistachio test online with 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
Lupin Diagnostics offers Allergy, Pistachio test home collection across cities in India, with certified phlebotomists visiting at a time that suits you. All samples are processed in NABL-accredited laboratories. Your digital report is delivered to you via email or WhatsApp once ready.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Allergy, Pistachio test detects IgE antibodies in your blood that your immune system produces in response to Pistachio proteins. It helps confirm whether Pistachios are the cause of allergic symptoms such as hives, swelling, or digestive discomfort.
Anyone who develops symptoms such as itching, swelling, skin rashes, nausea, or breathing difficulties after eating Pistachios or Pistachio-containing foods should consider this test. It is suitable for all age groups, including children.
Yes. Pistachios and cashews belong to the same botanical family and share similar proteins. People who are sensitised to Pistachios may also react to cashews. Your doctor can advise whether further testing is needed.
Yes, food allergies can develop at any stage of life. Some individuals show no symptoms in childhood but develop sensitisation later. If you have recently begun noticing reactions after eating Pistachios, consult your doctor.
No fasting is needed. However, inform your doctor if you are taking antihistamines or other allergy medications, as these may affect your IgE levels and how results are interpreted.
Symptoms typically appear within minutes of contact with the allergen, though they can sometimes take up to two hours to develop. If you experience any severe symptoms, seek medical attention promptly.
A result below 0.35 kU/L suggests no detectable sensitisation. However, a very low IgE level does not completely rule out the possibility of a future reaction. Always discuss your results with a doctor, particularly if your symptoms persist.
Allergy, Pistachio Test: Booking, Price, and Results
