Biomarker: T011-IgE Maple Leaf Sycamore

Overview

T011-IgE measures serum allergen-specific immunoglobulin E (sIgE) directed against maple leaf sycamore, also known as London plane tree (Platanus pollen). IgE is an antibody involved in immediate hypersensitivity reactions, including allergic rhinitis, conjunctivitis, and asthma. A detectable result indicates sensitization to the tested pollen extract, but it does not by itself establish symptomatic allergy or predict reaction severity. The test is clinically useful when interpreted with exposure history, seasonal symptoms, physical examination, and other allergy testing.

Clinical Use Cases

Evaluation of suspected seasonal allergic rhinitis, allergic conjunctivitis, or pollen-related asthma.
Identification of sensitization to Platanus pollen in patients with symptoms during the tree-pollen season.
Support for distinguishing relevant pollen sensitization from other suspected aeroallergens.
Selection of allergens for an individualized allergy-management plan or consideration of allergen immunotherapy.
Research assessment of pollen sensitization in patients with respiratory allergic disease.
Interpretation of possible co-sensitization or cross-reactivity with other tree pollens, because many patients with Platanus sensitization are sensitized to multiple pollens.

Specimen Types

Venous blood, typically processed as serum.
Plasma may be accepted by some assay systems, depending on the laboratory method.

Measurement Methods

In vitro allergen-specific IgE immunoassay using a solid-phase pollen extract.
Fluorescence enzyme immunoassay.
Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.
Chemiluminescent or other labeled anti-human-IgE immunoassays.
Immunoblotting methods in research settings.
Results are commonly reported as allergen-specific IgE concentration in kUA/L, with some systems also providing semiquantitative classes.

Test Preparation and Influencing Factors

No fasting or other special preparation is usually required for an allergy blood test.
Patients should report all medications and supplements to their healthcare professional.
Antihistamines generally do not interfere with blood sIgE testing, although they may affect skin-prick testing. Medication changes should follow clinician instructions.
Immunosuppressive treatment, immunoglobulin therapy, and some medical conditions may influence immune-test results.
A positive result indicates sensitization, not necessarily clinically relevant allergy or symptom severity.
Results should be interpreted in relation to geographic exposure, season, pollen counts, symptom timing, and other sensitizations.
Assay platforms, reporting thresholds, and pollen extracts may differ between laboratories, so results should be interpreted using the reporting laboratory’s reference information.