Quick Facts
- Sample: Blood draw (0.6 mL serum)
- Fasting: Not required
- Turn-around: 3-5 business days. May take longer based on weather, holiday, or lab delays.
Benefits
- Detect Brazil nut sensitivity before severe reactions occur
- Component testing included - automatically tests Ber e 1 protein if positive
- No doctor visit required - order online, get results privately
- High accuracy - FEIA method provides reliable IgE antibody measurement
- Fast results - know your allergy status within 3-5 business days
- Reflex testing - deeper insights into specific allergenic proteins automatically
Who Is This Test For?
- Individuals experiencing hives, swelling, or breathing issues after Brazil nuts
- People with tree nut allergies wanting to confirm Brazil nut sensitivity
- Health-conscious consumers screening for hidden food allergies
- Parents of allergic children monitoring sensitization changes over time
- Anyone with family history of tree nut or food allergies
How It Works – Just 3 Steps
- Order online - No appointment needed, visit any participating lab location
- Simple blood draw - Quick collection, no fasting or special preparation required
- Get results - Confidential results delivered online within 3-5 business days.
FAQ
What does this test measure? IgE antibodies specific to Brazil nuts, including component testing for Ber e 1 protein when levels are elevated.
Can I eat Brazil nuts before the test? Yes, recent consumption won't affect results. No dietary restrictions are needed.
Will this test show how severe my allergy is? Component testing for Ber e 1 helps assess risk of severe systemic reactions.
What if I'm allergic to other tree nuts? This test is specific to Brazil nuts only. Consider a comprehensive tree nut panel for broader screening.
How accurate are the results? Combining IgE testing with clinical history achieves correct diagnosis in approximately 77% of cases (PubMed 2006).
Do I need to see a doctor for results? While optional, consulting an allergist helps interpret results and develop management plans.
More Details
What is the purpose of this test?
This test measures immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies specific to Brazil nut allergens in your blood. The test uses Fluorescent Enzyme Immunoassay (FEIA) technology to detect sensitization to Brazil nuts, including the major allergenic protein Ber e 1. If your total Brazil nut IgE is ≥0.10 kU/L, reflex testing automatically measures Ber e 1 component levels to better assess your risk of severe allergic reactions.
Who would benefit from this test?
People experiencing allergic symptoms after Brazil nut exposure should consider this test. Tree nut allergies affect approximately 1-2% of the U.S. population, with prevalence increasing (CDC 2021). This test is particularly valuable for individuals with unexplained allergic reactions, family history of food allergies, or those wanting to confirm suspected Brazil nut sensitivity before it leads to serious complications.
When should I order Brazil Nut Allergy IgE Blood Test?
Order this test if you experience symptoms like hives, swelling, nausea, breathing difficulties, or anaphylaxis after consuming Brazil nuts or products containing them. The test is also useful for monitoring known allergic patients or differentiating between primary Brazil nut allergy and cross-reactivity with other tree nuts.
How do I interpret the results?
IgE < 0.10 kU/L
- What it means: No sensitization detected
- Typical action: Generally safe to consume; monitor for symptoms
IgE 0.10–0.34 kU/L
- What it means: Low sensitization
- Typical action: Discuss with allergist; may tolerate small amounts
IgE 0.35–0.69 kU/L
- What it means: Moderate sensitization
- Typical action: Avoid Brazil nuts; consult allergist
IgE 0.70–3.49 kU/L
- What it means: High sensitization
- Typical action: Strict avoidance; carry emergency medication
IgE ≥ 3.50 kU/L
- What it means: Very high sensitization
- Typical action: Complete avoidance; allergy action plan essential
Positive IgE indicates sensitization, not necessarily clinical allergy - correlation with symptoms and medical history is essential for proper 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 special preparation is required for this test. You don't need to fast or avoid Brazil nuts before testing. Continue taking your regular medications unless specifically instructed otherwise by your healthcare provider. The test requires a simple blood draw of approximately 0.6 mL of serum.
How often should I get tested?
- Initial screening with symptoms: Once, then as clinically indicated
- Known Brazil nut allergy: Every 2–3 years or with symptom changes
- Monitoring treatment response: 6–12 months during active management
- Family history, no symptoms: Consider one-time screening
- Cross-reactivity evaluation: As recommended by allergist
Why early detection matters
Early detection of Brazil nut allergy prevents serious allergic reactions and improves quality of life. Sensitization to Ber e 1 protein is associated with higher risk of systemic and anaphylactic reactions, making component-resolved diagnostics crucial for risk assessment. Accurate diagnosis reduces emergency room visits and enables proactive allergy management through dietary avoidance and emergency preparedness (Johns Hopkins Medicine 2023).
Related tests you may consider
Tree Nut and Peanut Allergy IgE Blood Test - Measures the IgE antibody levels in the blood to screen for an allergy to certain tree nuts and peanuts.
Immunoglobulin E Blood Test, Total, IgE - Measures the total IgE antibody levels in the blood to assess the likelihood of experiencing allergic reactions.
Soy Allergy IgE Blood Test - Measures the IgE antibody levels in the blood to screen for an allergy to soy.
