Quick Facts
- Sample: Blood serum from venipuncture
- Fasting: None required
- Turn-around: 4-6 business days. May take longer based on weather, holiday or lab delays.
Benefits
- Get answers fast - results in 4-6 business days without doctor referral
- Pinpoint specific triggers - tests one milk protein for precise identification
- Take control - make informed dietary choices based on scientific data
- Convenient testing - order online with at local lab collection
- Peace of mind - understand your body's immune response to dairy
Who Is This Test For?
- Adults experiencing unexplained symptoms after consuming dairy products
- Parents of children with suspected milk protein allergies
- Individuals with family history of food allergies seeking preventive insights
- People with persistent digestive issues linked to dairy consumption
- Those considering elimination diets wanting scientific confirmation first
- Anyone wanting to identify specific milk protein sensitivities
How It Works – Just 3 Steps
- Order online - No doctor visit required; simple online ordering process
- Provide sample - Quick blood draw at local lab
- Get results - Receive confidential results within days.
FAQ
What does this test measure? IgE antibodies specific to alpha lactalbumin, a primary whey protein in cow's milk.
How is this different from lactose intolerance testing? This tests for allergic immune reactions, not digestive enzyme deficiency like lactose intolerance.
Can I take this test if I'm on antihistamines? Yes, but inform the lab as medications may affect results interpretation.
What happens if my results are positive? Elevated levels suggest sensitization; discuss with healthcare provider for dietary guidance.
Is this test suitable for children? Yes, milk allergies affect 2-3% of children and early detection improves management (CDC 2022).
Will this test detect all milk allergies? No, it only tests alpha lactalbumin; consider a full milk allergy panel for comprehensive screening.
More Details
What is the purpose of this test?
This test detects IgE antibodies specific to alpha lactalbumin using Fluorescence Enzyme Immunoassay (FEIA), confirming whether your immune system treats this milk protein as a threat (Mayo Clinic 2024). Alpha lactalbumin comprises a significant portion of whey protein in cow's milk, and allergic reactions can cause symptoms ranging from skin irritation to digestive upset.
Who would benefit from this test?
Individuals experiencing allergic symptoms within 48 hours of dairy consumption benefit most from this testing. This includes people with unexplained rashes, hives, swelling, nausea, or cramps after eating dairy products (Johns Hopkins Medicine 2024). Those with family history of food allergies or persistent symptoms despite dietary changes should also consider testing.
When should I order Alpha Lactalbumin Allergy IgE Blood Test?
Order this test when you suspect dairy-related allergic reactions, especially if symptoms occur consistently after milk consumption. Testing is most valuable when you experience immediate or delayed allergic responses to dairy products. Consider testing before starting elimination diets to establish baseline sensitivity levels (American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology 2023).
How do I interpret the results?
Results measure IgE antibody levels in kU/L (kilo units per liter). Higher values indicate greater sensitization to alpha lactalbumin.
IgE Level < 0.35 kU/L
- What it means: No significant sensitization
- Typical action: Alpha lactalbumin likely not a trigger
IgE Level 0.35 - 0.69 kU/L
- What it means: Low sensitization
- Typical action: Monitor symptoms, consider dietary trial
IgE Level 0.70 - 3.49 kU/L
- What it means: Moderate sensitization
- Typical action: Likely allergic, discuss avoidance strategies
IgE Level 3.50 - 17.49 kU/L
- What it means: High sensitization
- Typical action: Strong allergy likely, strict avoidance recommended
IgE Level > 17.50 kU/L
- What it means: Very high sensitization
- Typical action: Severe allergy risk, emergency plan needed
Results must be interpreted alongside clinical symptoms and medical history for accurate diagnosis.
Disclaimer: Reference ranges may vary by laboratory. Listed ranges are general guidelines and may differ from those used by the performing lab. Always consult your healthcare provider for interpretation.
Pre-test preparation
No fasting or special dietary restrictions required before testing. Continue normal medications unless specifically advised otherwise. Inform the laboratory if you're taking antihistamines or undergoing immunotherapy, as these may influence results interpretation (Eurofins Viracor 2023).
How often should I get tested?
Initial diagnosis
- One-time testing usually sufficient
Monitoring children
- Every 1-2 years to check if outgrowing allergy
After immunotherapy
- As directed by allergist (typically 6-12 months)
Symptom changes
- When experiencing new or worsening reactions
Adults with known allergy
- Generally not needed unless symptoms change
Why early detection matters
Early identification of alpha lactalbumin sensitivity prevents unnecessary dietary restrictions while ensuring appropriate avoidance of trigger foods. Accurate diagnosis reduces emergency healthcare visits and improves quality of life through targeted management strategies. Many children outgrow milk allergies, making monitoring particularly valuable for families (CDC 2022).
Related tests you may consider
Milk Allergy IgE Blood Test - Measures IgE antibody levels in the blood to help detect an allergy to cow's milk.
Immunoglobulin E Blood Test, Total, IgE - Measures the total IgE antibody levels in the blood to assess the likelihood of experiencing allergic reactions.
200 Food Sensitivity Panel- ALCAT Test Kit - Measures changes in size and volume of white blood cells in response to challenges with foods. This is a sensitivity test, not an allergy test
