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
- Non-invasive alternative to skin testing when contraindications exist
- Convenient access to specialized allergy diagnostics without physician referral
- Quantitative results measured in kU/L for precise sensitization assessment
- Fast turnaround supports timely diagnosis and treatment planning
Who Is This Test For?
- Healthcare workers with frequent latex glove exposure
- Individuals experiencing unexplained allergic symptoms after latex contact
- Patients scheduled for surgery requiring preoperative latex screening
- People with occupational or consumer latex exposure concerns
- Those unable to undergo skin prick testing safely
How It Works – Just 3 Steps
- Order online and receive lab requisition instantly
- Visit a local lab for quick blood draw (no appointment needed)
- Receive confidential results within 3-5 business days.
FAQ
What does this test measure? It detects latex-specific IgE antibodies indicating immune sensitization to natural rubber latex proteins (International Archives of Allergy and Immunology 2012).
Can I eat before the test? Yes, no fasting or medication restrictions apply to this blood test.
How accurate is this test? Sensitivity ranges 70–90% with 72% specificity; clinical correlation is essential (American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology 2025).
Will this replace skin testing? No, skin prick tests remain more sensitive but this offers an alternative when contraindicated.
What if my result is positive? Consult an allergist for confirmation testing and personalized avoidance strategies.
How long until I get results? Typically 3-5 business days after sample collection.
More Details
What is the purpose of this test?
This test measures specific IgE antibodies in your blood directed against natural rubber latex proteins. Using ImmunoCAP® or equivalent fluorescence enzyme immunoassay technology, it detects Type I (immediate) hypersensitivity reactions to latex (Cleveland Clinic 2025). Latex originates from rubber tree sap (Hevea brasiliensis) and appears in countless medical, household, and consumer products. When you have a latex allergy, your immune system recognizes latex proteins as threats, producing IgE antibodies that trigger histamine release upon exposure. This test helps clinicians diagnose latex allergy and supports proactive management decisions.
Who would benefit from this test?
Any individual can develop latex allergy, but certain groups face elevated risk. Healthcare workers experience frequent latex glove contact, making them particularly vulnerable (Allergy & Asthma Network 2025). People with multiple surgical histories or urinary catheter use show increased sensitization rates. Those with spina bifida, urologic abnormalities, or bone marrow defects also demonstrate higher prevalence. Cross-reactivity exists between latex and certain foods including bananas, avocados, kiwi, chestnuts, tomatoes, melons, and raw potatoes. Individuals with existing allergies, asthma, or eczema may develop latex sensitivity more readily. This test benefits anyone experiencing symptoms after latex exposure or requiring preoperative screening.
When should I order a Latex Allergy Blood Test?
Order this test when symptoms suggest latex allergy or before surgeries involving latex products. Common symptoms appear within minutes to hours after exposure and include itchy watery eyes, skin rash or hives, difficulty breathing or wheezing, cough, sore throat, and nasal congestion (Annals of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology 1998). Severe reactions called anaphylaxis require immediate medical attention, featuring rapid heartbeat, swollen throat, breathing difficulty, low blood pressure, and loss of consciousness. Everyday products triggering reactions include medical gloves, catheters, dental dams, rubber bands, erasers, adhesive tape, elastic clothing, contraceptives, balloons, and children's items like pacifiers. Note that synthetic latex products do not contain natural rubber proteins and will not trigger true latex allergies.
How do I interpret the results?
Results are expressed quantitatively in kilounits per liter (kU/L), indicating sensitization levels to latex proteins. Clinical correlation with symptoms remains essential as false positives occur in 10–25% of tested individuals, especially those with multiple allergies (Allergy & Asthma Network 2025).
<0.35 kU/L
- Meaning: Negative – no detectable sensitization
- Typical action: Allergy unlikely but not excluded; consider clinical evaluation
0.35–0.69 kU/L
- Meaning: Low positive – minimal sensitization
- Typical action: Consult allergist; may not correlate with symptoms
0.70–3.49 kU/L
- Meaning: Moderate positive – significant sensitization
- Typical action: Develop latex avoidance plan with allergist guidance
3.50–17.49 kU/L
- Meaning: High positive – strong sensitization
- Typical action: Strict latex avoidance; carry emergency epinephrine
≥17.50 kU/L
- Meaning: Very high – severe sensitization
- Typical action: Comprehensive allergy management; alert all providers
Negative results do not completely rule out latex allergy; skin testing or latex challenge may be needed for definitive 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 dietary restrictions are required before this blood test. You may take medications as usual. If you plan to undergo complementary skin prick testing, avoid antihistamines as directed by your allergist since they can interfere with skin test accuracy. Blood is collected into serum-separator tubes at your chosen lab, then refrigerated and shipped promptly for analysis.
How often should I get tested?
Testing frequency depends on your exposure level, symptom history, and clinical circumstances.
- Initial symptom evaluation: Once for baseline diagnosis
- Negative result with ongoing symptoms: Retest after 6–12 months or with allergist guidance
- Positive result with successful avoidance: Retesting generally not needed; monitor symptoms
- Healthcare workers with exposure: As clinically indicated; not routine screening
- Preoperative screening: Once before planned latex-involving procedures
Why early detection matters
Early diagnosis of latex allergy reduces risk of severe reactions and occupational disability while improving patient safety (American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology 2025). Healthcare workers represent a particularly vulnerable population, with sensitization rates significantly higher than the general public. Undiagnosed latex allergy can lead to anaphylaxis during medical procedures for patients or occupational asthma for workers. Timely identification enables proactive avoidance strategies, workplace accommodations, and emergency preparedness planning. Education about latex-free alternatives empowers you to minimize exposure in daily life. For those at high risk, carrying emergency epinephrine and wearing medical alert identification can be lifesaving. Early intervention also reduces healthcare costs associated with allergic reactions and emergency treatments.
Related tests you may consider
Immunoglobulin E Blood Test, Total, IgE– Measures the total IgE antibody levels in the blood to assess the likelihood of experiencing allergic reactions.
Tryptase Blood Test – Measures the tryptase levels in a blood sample to diagnose the cause of a severe allergic reaction or to screen for a mast cell disorder.
IgE Food Allergy Basic Test, Serum - Mosaic Diagnostics Test Kit – Checks for allergic reactions to 26 common foods by measuring IgE antibody levels in the blood, helping identify foods that may cause symptoms like rashes, stomach issues, or breathing problems.
