Mushroom Allergy IgE Blood Test

Order a mushroom allergy IgE blood test to detect an allergy to mushrooms. This test measures the amount of allergen-specific antibodies in a blood sample.

Whether accentuating foods or the main meal, mushrooms are a nutritious and tasty addition to the diet. While many individuals enjoy mushrooms, also known as fungi, they may cause allergic reactions for a small percentage of those who indulge. Mushroom allergies are considered uncommon and unique since they can cause symptoms not just from ingestion but also from skin contact or through inhalation of airborne spores, similar to microscopic seeds.

Mushroom allergy can occur at any age, even if an individual has consumed mushrooms for an extended period of time. An allergy to mushrooms triggers a reaction in an individual's immune system. The body views certain substances as toxic and produces IgE antibodies to these contaminants. These antibodies cause histamine to be released, which will cause the symptoms of an allergic reaction.

Allergy symptoms vary from one individual to the next ranging from mild to severe reactions, which can be experienced within minutes to hours after exposure. Common symptoms of a mushroom allergy may include one or more of the following symptoms:

• Swelling of the lips, mouth, and/or throat
• Wheezing
• Skin rashes or hives
• Runny nose and/or watery eyes
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Stomach cramping or bloating

More severe symptoms associated with mushroom allergy may include:

• Fainting
• Shortness of breath
• A drop in blood pressure

It is recommended to avoid portobelo, black truffle, chanterelle, shiitake, morel, and white or button mushrooms in the case an individual suffers from a mushroom allergy.