Allergy, Sesame Seed Test
About Allergy, Sesame Seed Test
| Field | Value |
|---|---|
| Also Known As | Sesame seed IgE test, sesame allergy blood test, sesamum indicum allergy test, f10 sesame seed IgE |
| Sample Type | Serum (venous blood) |
| Fasting Required | No fasting required |
| Report Time | 3 days |
| Recommended For | All age groups, including infants, children, and adults |
| Price | Starting at ₹1,300 |
What Is an Allergy, Sesame Seed Test?
The allergy, sesame seed test is a blood test that detects allergen-specific IgE (immunoglobulin E) antibodies against sesame seed proteins in your blood. It is also known as the sesame seed IgE test or sesame allergy blood test. Doctors order this test when a patient has experienced symptoms that suggest a possible reaction to sesame. A small blood sample is collected and the serum is analysed in the laboratory.
What Does an Allergy, Sesame Seed Test Measure?
This test identifies the level of IgE antibodies your immune system produces in response to sesame seed proteins. Results are reported in kU/L (kilo-units per litre) and classified by severity class.
The key proteins associated with sesame sensitisation include the following:
| Sesame Component | Protein Type |
|---|---|
| Ses i 1, Ses i 2 | 2S albumin proteins |
| Ses i 3 | 7S vicilin-like globulin |
| Ses i 4, Ses i 5 | Oleosins |
| Ses i 6, Ses i 7 | 11S globulins |
The sesamum indicum allergy test detects sensitisation to these proteins. A raised IgE result indicates your immune system has responded to sesame proteins and may be reacting to them.
Why Is an Allergy, Sesame Seed Test Done?
Sesame allergy is among the more common food allergies in India and globally. This test helps doctors confirm or rule out sesame as the trigger for allergic symptoms.
Common Symptoms That May Require This Test
The following symptoms may prompt a doctor to order the allergy, sesame seed test:
- Tingling or itching in the mouth after eating sesame-containing foods.
- Hives, skin rash, or persistent itching
- Swelling of the lips, tongue, or throat
- Difficulty breathing or wheezing
- Flushed skin or redness
- Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhoea
- Sudden drop in blood pressure with rapid heartbeat (a sign of anaphylaxis, a severe whole-body allergic reaction).
Conditions This Test Can Help Detect
This test can assist in identifying the following conditions:
- IgE-mediated sesame seed allergy, confirming sensitisation and estimating risk of reactions.
- Cross-reactive allergies to other seeds and nuts due to shared 2S albumin proteins.
- Possible co-existing allergy to peanuts, hazelnuts, walnuts, brazil nuts, cashews, pistachios, poppy seeds, or rapeseed.
How to Prepare and What to Expect
No special preparation is needed for this test. Here is what you should know before your appointment.
Do You Need to Fast?
No, fasting is not required. You can eat and drink normally before the test.
If you are booked for other tests alongside this one, check whether those tests require fasting.
Practical Tips Before Your Test
Keep the following points in mind before your allergy, sesame seed test:
- Bring a detailed clinical history, including your symptoms, previous allergic reactions, and any family history of allergies, as this is required for the test
- Inform the lab technician about any antihistamines or immunosuppressant medications you are taking, as antihistamines may suppress IgE levels; stop them 5 to 7 days before testing if your doctor considers it safe
- Continue your normal diet and daily activities on the day of the test
- Wear a short-sleeved or loose-sleeved top for easy access to the arm
Step-by-Step Procedure
The blood collection process is straightforward:
- The phlebotomist (blood collection specialist) will clean the inner elbow area with an antiseptic wipe.
- A tourniquet is tied around the upper arm to make the vein easier to locate.
- A needle is gently inserted into a vein to collect approximately 3 mL of blood into a gel tube.
- The needle is removed and light pressure is applied to stop any bleeding.
- The blood sample is labelled and stored at the required temperature (2 to 8°C refrigerated) for transport.
- The sample reaches the NABL-accredited laboratory, where serum is separated and analysed using the FEIA (fluorescence enzyme immunoassay) method.
Factors That Can Affect Accuracy
The following factors may influence your test result:
- Taking antihistamines or immunosuppressants before the test.
- Markedly elevated total serum IgE levels (above 2,500 kU/L), which can cause false-positive results.
- Incomplete clinical history, which makes it harder for doctors to interpret borderline results.
- Cross-reactive allergens, as shared proteins with other nuts and seeds can affect readings.
Understanding Your Allergy, Sesame Seed Test Results
Your results are reported as a numeric IgE level in kU/L and assigned a class from 0 to 6. A higher class indicates a higher level of sensitisation. Results must always be reviewed alongside your symptoms and clinical history.
| Class | Interpretation | IgE Level (kU/L) |
|---|---|---|
| Class 0 | Undetectable | Less than 0.10 |
| Class 0/1 | Very Low Level | 0.10 to 0.34 |
| Class 1 | Low Level | 0.35 to 0.69 |
| Class 2 | Moderate Level | 0.70 to 3.49 |
| Class 3 | High Level | 3.50 to 17.4 |
| Class 4 | Very High Level | 17.5 to 49.9 |
| Class 5 | Very High Level | 50 to 100 |
| Class 6 | Very High Level | Greater than 100 |
Results at Class 2 (0.70 kU/L or above) are flagged as abnormally high. A negative result (below 0.10 kU/L) suggests no detectable sensitisation, though a negative test does not completely rule out clinical allergy in all cases.
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
Patients with very high total serum IgE (above 2,500 kU/L) may show false-positive results due to non-specific binding of IgE antibodies. This is relatively uncommon but should be considered when interpreting borderline readings.
Sesame allergy frequently coexists with peanut and tree nut allergies. Studies suggest sesame allergy coexists with 15% to 54% of self-reported peanut allergies and 8% to nearly 15% of tree nut allergies. Your doctor may recommend additional allergen testing if needed.
How to Maintain Healthy Levels
The following general tips are relevant if sesame sensitisation is detected:
- Avoid sesame seeds and products containing sesame oil, tahini, or sesame flour; read food labels carefully, as sesame can appear in processed foods, cosmetics, and supplements.
- Inform restaurants and food providers of your allergy when eating out.
- Discuss with your doctor whether an epinephrine auto-injector is appropriate for you if you have experienced severe allergic reactions.
Lupin Diagnostics Allergy, Sesame Seed Price and Home Collection
The allergy, sesame seed test at Lupin Diagnostics is priced starting at ₹1,300, with home sample collection available across 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.
How to Book
The allergy, sesame seed test online booking process at Lupin Diagnostics is simple:
- 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, sesame seed test home collection across multiple cities in India. A trained phlebotomist visits your home at a time convenient for you. All samples are processed in NABL-accredited laboratories, and your digital report is delivered securely once ready.
Frequently Asked Questions
The allergy, sesame seed test measures IgE antibodies in your blood that are specific to sesame seed proteins. It helps determine whether your immune system is sensitised to sesame and supports diagnosis of sesame allergy when symptoms are present.
No fasting is required. You can eat and drink as normal before your appointment. There are no dietary restrictions specific to this test.
Yes, the test is suitable for all age groups, including infants and young children. Sesame is among the top food allergens in children, and reference ranges apply across all ages.
A positive result indicates sensitisation to sesame seed proteins, meaning your immune system has produced IgE antibodies against them. However, a definitive allergy diagnosis requires your doctor to review the result alongside your symptoms and medical history. An oral food challenge remains the clinical gold standard for confirming food allergy.
Yes, this is possible. Sesame allergy commonly coexists with peanut and tree nut allergies due to shared protein structures. Your doctor may advise testing for other allergens based on your symptoms and history.
Sesame allergy tends to be persistent. Only 25% to 30% of children with sesame allergy are estimated to outgrow it over time. Speak to a doctor or allergist for guidance on long-term management.
Allergy, Sesame Seed Test
