Serological Tests
Serological Tests (Specific Blood Tests / RAST)
Specific blood tests—often referred to as RAST tests—measure allergen-specific antibodies, known as immunoglobulin E (IgE). They are a modern and highly accurate diagnostic tool in allergology, particularly useful in cases where skin testing cannot be performed or is not sufficient to clearly identify the responsible allergens.
In most cases, combining the results of specific IgE blood tests with skin testing can be particularly valuable in accurately identifying the allergen or allergens responsible for the patient’s symptoms.
When Is Blood Testing Specifically Recommended?
The allergist may choose blood testing as the primary diagnostic method in situations such as:
- Extensive skin conditions: When the patient has severe or widespread eczema or another skin condition that prevents reliable skin testing.
- Use of certain medications: When the patient is taking potent antihistamines or other medications that may interfere with skin test results and temporary discontinuation of treatment is not possible.
How Is the Test Performed?
The procedure is simple, quick, and safe:
- Simple blood sample: A small amount of blood is collected for laboratory analysis.
- Measurement of specific IgE: The sample is analyzed to detect and accurately measure allergen-specific IgE antibodies against the suspected allergens.
Benefits for the Patient
- Objective assessment: The allergist obtains precise, quantitative information regarding the degree of sensitization to specific allergens. In this context, specific IgE testing provides valuable complementary information that can enhance the diagnostic accuracy of skin testing.
- Greater diagnostic clarity: Blood testing provides a reliable diagnostic option when conventional skin testing cannot be performed or does not provide sufficiently clear results.
Modern allergen-specific IgE blood testing provides accurate and reliable information and represents a valuable tool in the personalized diagnosis and assessment of allergic diseases.
