This test measures IgE Antibodies for the M201−IgE Tilletia Tritici fungus, found in infected agriculture crops like wheat, corn, and rye, to screen for allergic reactions.
Tilletia Tritici is known by many names such as Tilletia Caries, corn smut, wheat bunt, common bunt, and stinking smut. These names are due to the fungus's characteristics of dull grey-brown or black spores (bunt balls) that fill the kernels and release the smell of rotten fish. While harvesting, the bunt balls are broken and release teliospores contaminating the grain and soil. Some bunt balls remain intact and mix with healthy grain. Dark clouds of bunt spores can be seen in heavily affected fields during harvest.
As a result of the airborne spores, individuals who live or work on or near farms with infected crops may develop an allergy to the fungus. In an individual with a Tilletia Tritici allergy, the body's immune system, which usually combats infections, overproduces IgE antibodies to fight the fungus invasion. But unfortunately, this may cause an anaphylactic shock.
Tilletia Tritici allergy may cause respiratory symptoms, including:
- coughing
- sore throat
- runny nose
- shortness of breath
- wheezing
- fever
- asthma
- bronchitis
- hay fever
Individuals may order this test if they are experiencing allergy symptoms and would like to calculate their IgE antibody levels to help determine the severity of the reaction. Contact your doctor or healthcare provider if you have significant concerns or questions about your result.
Test Code(s):
602915, 3308
Also Known As:
Tilletia Caries, Wheat Bunt IgE Ab, Corn Smut IgE Ab
Preparation:
No special preparation is required.
Test Results:
3-5 days. May take longer based on weather, holiday, or lab delays.
