Order a macadamia nut allergy IgE blood test to detect an allergy to macadamia nuts. This test measures the amount of allergen-specific antibodies in a blood sample. Macadamia nuts are a type of tree nut that comes from the fruit of a large evergreen tree. These delicious, exotic nuts are known as delicacies with their rich flavor and oil and are eaten as dessert nuts, making them as precious as gold in the world of nuts and berries. The macadamia nut is a good source of dietary fiber, protein, phosphorus, calcium, iron, potassium, and magnesium.
Besides being one of the most popular food allergies, tree nuts are an important food source worldwide. If an individual has an allergy to one tree nut, it is extremely likely to have an allergy to other tree nuts. Some research shows that the allergens in coconut and hazelnuts and those in macadamia nuts have similarities. This similarity is otherwise defined as cross-reactivity.
Individuals with tree nut allergies should be careful to verify food ingredients because nuts and nut oils are found in many types of food items. Tree nuts might be found in foods such as:
- pesto
- energy bars
- nut extract or nut oils
- flavored coffees
- cereals
- frozen desserts
- crackers
- marinades
- cookies
- certain cold cuts, such as mortadella
- chocolate candy
- alcoholic beverages
An allergy to the macadamia nut triggers a reaction in an individual's immune system. The body views certain substances as toxic and produces IgE antibodies to these contaminants. These antibodies cause histamine to be released, which will cause the symptoms of an allergic reaction.
Allergy symptoms vary from one individual to the next ranging from mild to severe reactions, which can be experienced within minutes to hours after exposure. Common symptoms of a macadamia nut allergy may include one or more of the following symptoms:
- Coughing
- Itching around the face or mouth
- Stomach pain
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Sneezing
- Swelling lips
- Puffy or runny eyes
- Vomiting
- Gravelly throat
- Hives
- Trouble breathing
- Feeling faint
- Difficulty swallowing
Test Code(s):
602568, 38475
Preparation:
No special preparation required.
Test Results:
3-5 days. May take longer based on weather, holiday or lab delays.
