Quick Facts
- Sample: Blood (serum)
- Fasting: Not required
- Turn-around: 3–5 business days. May take longer based on weather, holiday, or lab delays.
Benefits
- Pinpoint allergy triggers — detects specific IgE antibodies to chicken feathers for accurate diagnosis
- No doctor visit required — order confidentially online and walk into any lab
- Fast, actionable results — receive answers in 3–5 days to guide treatment decisions
- High clinical accuracy — uses ImmunoCAP® FEIA technology with proven sensitivity (Mayo Clinic 2024)
- Supports treatment planning — helps tailor immunotherapy or avoidance strategies effectively
Who Is This Test For?
- People with respiratory symptoms (coughing, sneezing, breathing difficulties) after exposure to chickens or feathers
- Individuals experiencing itchy eyes, sore throat, or hay fever near birds or feather-filled products
- Poultry workers or farmers concerned about workplace allergy risks
- Anyone needing to confirm sensitization before starting allergy immunotherapy
- Those wanting to differentiate feather allergy from other environmental sensitivities
How It Works – Just 3 Steps
- Order online – No doctor's note required; select your test and preferred lab location
- Visit the lab – Quick blood draw at a lab location near you
- Get results – Receive confidential results within 3–5 days in your online account
FAQ
What allergens does this test detect? It measures IgE antibodies against proteins in chicken feathers and associated dander.
Do I need to fast before the test? No fasting is required; just avoid antihistamines if possible for clearer results.
How is this different from a skin prick test? Blood IgE testing is safer for people with severe allergies or skin conditions.
Can I use results to avoid allergen exposure? Yes—positive results help you identify and minimize contact with chicken feathers.
More Details
What is the purpose of this test?
This test detects specific IgE antibodies against chicken feather allergens in your blood. By measuring sensitization levels using ImmunoCAP® Fluorescence Enzyme Immunoassay (FEIA), it helps diagnose allergies linked to feather exposure (Thermo Fisher Scientific 2025). Results support clinical diagnosis when paired with your symptoms and medical history.
Who would benefit from this test?
You may benefit if you experience allergy symptoms after exposure to chickens, birds, or feather-containing products like pillows and bedding. Poultry workers and farmers are at higher risk—up to 17.4% report asthma symptoms linked to feather exposure (Thermo Fisher Scientific 2025). Testing helps confirm sensitization before immunotherapy or guides avoidance strategies for better symptom management.
When should I order the Chicken Feather Allergy IgE Blood Test?
Order this test when you notice allergic symptoms—itchy or watery eyes, sore throat, coughing, sneezing, or breathing difficulties—after contact with chickens or feathers. It's also useful if you're considering allergy treatment and need confirmation of sensitization. Early testing reduces unnecessary exposure and supports targeted interventions (Mayo Clinic 2024).
How do I interpret the results?
Results report IgE antibody levels in kU/L (kilounits per liter). Your report compares your level to reference ranges indicating sensitization severity.
IgE < 0.10 kU/L
- Meaning: Negative — no sensitization detected
- Action: Unlikely chicken feather allergy; explore other causes
IgE 0.10–0.34 kU/L
- Meaning: Borderline / equivocal
- Action: Consider repeat testing; monitor symptoms
IgE 0.35–0.69 kU/L
- Meaning: Low positive — mild sensitization
- Action: Avoid feather exposure; discuss prevention with provider
IgE 0.70–3.49 kU/L
- Meaning: Moderate positive
- Action: Implement avoidance measures; consider allergy medications
IgE 3.50–17.49 kU/L
- Meaning: High positive — strong sensitization
- Action: Strict avoidance; evaluate for immunotherapy
IgE ≥ 17.50 kU/L
- Meaning: Very high positive
- Action: Comprehensive allergy management; specialist consultation recommended
Positive IgE is detected in 9–14% of patients tested for respiratory allergies (ImmunoCAP 2025).
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 is needed before your blood draw. Inform the lab about any medications you're taking. If possible, avoid antihistamines for a few days before testing, as they may affect results—but check with your provider first. Arrive well-hydrated to make blood collection easier.
How often should I get tested?
- Initial diagnosis: Once to confirm sensitization
- Ongoing symptoms despite avoidance: Annually or as symptoms change
- Monitoring immunotherapy progress: Every 6–12 months as recommended by specialist
- Symptom-free after treatment: Retest only if symptoms return
Why early detection matters
Early identification of chicken feather allergy prevents prolonged exposure and worsening symptoms. Untreated allergies can lead to chronic respiratory issues, reduced quality of life, and increased healthcare costs. Testing empowers you to make informed decisions about your environment, occupation, and treatment options—supporting better long-term health outcomes (Eurofins Viracor 2003).
Related tests you may consider
Canary Feather Allergy IgE Blood Test — Detects IgE sensitization to canary feathers, useful for individuals exposed to multiple pet bird species.
Animal Mix Allergy IgE Blood Test — Screens for IgE antibodies to a group of animal allergens, offering broader insight beyond poultry exposure alone.
Parrot, Parakeet, and Budgerigar Feather Allergy IgE Blood Test — Detects IgE sensitization to parrot, parakeet, and budgerigar feathers, useful for individuals exposed to multiple pet bird species.
