What is the purpose of this test?
Order this Egg Component Allergy IgE Blood Test to measure the IgE antibody levels in the blood to detect an allergy to two types of egg proteins. Eggs are one of the most widely recognized food allergens. As a part of a healthy diet, eggs can be a great source of protein. However, some individuals can be allergic to proteins in either egg yolk, egg white, or even both. Eggs contain many proteins, but most of the allergens are found in the egg white, not the egg yolk. The white of the egg contains two primary proteins of concern. The first and most prevalent is ovalbumin, and the second is ovomucoid. Egg yolk is an allergen but does not cause many allergic reactions.
At high temperatures, ovalbumin breaks down, so individuals with an allergic reaction could potentially eat cooked eggs. On the other hand, ovomucoid is resistant to acid and is heat stable; therefore, it is likely that individuals with this allergy cannot tolerate raw or cooked eggs. In addition, it is impossible to isolate egg yolk from residual egg white protein allergens, so a strained egg yolk would not be suitable for an egg-allergic individual.
Individuals with an adverse reaction to eggs may also experience the same response after ingesting chicken since they may have some allergens (proteins) in common. In addition, individuals with an egg allergy could be allergic to other types of eggs, including duck, goose, quail, or turkey. Therefore, this Egg Component Allergy Blood Test may help screen for an allergy to eggs and aid healthcare providers in developing a management and treatment plan.
What other food products should I avoid if I have an egg allergy?
Individuals allergic to eggs should avoid not only it but also avoid egg-based, including:
- Baked goods
- Premade salads
- Frozen meals that may contain eggs
- Albumin
- Apovitellin
- Avidin globulin
- Egg (dried, powdered, solids, white, yolk)
- Eggnog
- Lysozyme
- Mayonnaise
- Meringue (meringue powder)
What causes an allergic reaction to eggs?
Once an individual with an egg allergy ingests eggs or egg-based dishes, it triggers a response in an individual's immune system. The immune system views specific proteins (ovalbumin and ovomucoid) in eggs as harmful and produces IgE antibodies to combat these invaders. Unfortunately, these antibodies cause the chemical histamine to be released, which will cause the symptoms associated with an allergic reaction.
When should I order an Egg Component Allergy IgE Blood Test?
Individuals may order this Egg Component Allergy IgE Blood Test if they have experienced symptoms related to an egg allergy. Allergy symptoms vary depending on the individual, ranging from mild to severe reactions. Most food-related symptoms occur within two hours of ingestion; however, they frequently begin within minutes. In addition, the response can be delayed by four to six hours or even longer in some rare cases.
An allergic reaction may affect the skin, intestinal lining, and air pathways. Individuals with an egg allergy may experience one or more of the following symptoms:
- Tingling sensation near or around the mouth
- Swelling
- Abdominal discomfort
- Nausea or vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Itching or hives
- Congestion
- Difficulty breathing, swallowing, or wheezing
- Lightheadedness
A severe, possibly life-threatening allergic reaction known as anaphylaxis may occur in some cases. An anaphylactic response requires immediate medical attention. Signs or symptoms of anaphylaxis may include:
- Rapid or increased heart rate
- Swollen throat or lump making it difficult to breathe
- Low blood pressure
- Extreme dizziness or loss of consciousness
