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
- Accurate detection using advanced ImmunoCAP immunoassay technology
- No physician visit required for convenient online ordering
- Nationwide access with over 2,000+ certified collection locations
- Quick turnaround with results in 3-5 business days
- Peace of mind for dietary planning and allergy management
Who Is This Test For?
- Individuals experiencing unexplained symptoms after eating or handling mushrooms
- People with hives, breathing issues, or digestive problems following mushroom exposure
- Those with existing food allergies wanting comprehensive screening
- Anyone seeking to confirm suspected mushroom sensitivity
- Individuals exposed to mushroom spores causing respiratory symptoms
How It Works – Just 3 Steps
- Order online - No physician referral needed; schedule at your convenience
- Visit a lab - Get a simple blood draw at any participating location
- Get results - Receive results securely online within 3-5 days
FAQ
What does this test measure? This test detects IgE antibodies your immune system produces in response to mushroom proteins, confirming mushroom allergy sensitivity.
Can mushroom allergy develop later in life? Yes, mushroom allergies can develop at any age, even if you've eaten mushrooms safely for years without problems.
What symptoms indicate I need this test? Hives, swelling, breathing difficulties, nausea, vomiting, or skin reactions after mushroom exposure warrant testing.
How is this different from food sensitivity tests? This measures IgE antibodies that cause immediate allergic reactions, not delayed food sensitivities or intolerances.
Are mushroom allergies common? Mushroom allergies are rare, affecting approximately 1% of the population, but rates are higher among people with other allergies.
What if my results are elevated? Elevated results suggest mushroom allergy, and you should discuss creating an emergency action plan with your healthcare provider.
More Details
What is the purpose of this test?
This test identifies whether your immune system produces IgE antibodies in response to mushroom allergens. Unlike other food allergies, mushroom reactions can occur through ingestion, skin contact, or inhalation of airborne spores (Mayo Clinic 2024). The test uses state-of-the-art immunoassay technology to quantify specific IgE levels, providing accurate results to confirm or rule out mushroom allergy.
Who would benefit from this test?
Anyone experiencing allergic symptoms after mushroom exposure should consider testing. This includes individuals with unexplained hives, abdominal pain, breathing issues, or skin reactions following consumption or handling of mushrooms. People with existing food, mold, or environmental allergies may also benefit from screening, as cross-reactivity can occur between related fungi (European Academy of Allergy and Clinical Immunology 2023).
When should I order a Mushroom Allergy IgE Blood Test?
Order this test if you experience symptoms after eating or handling mushrooms, especially if reactions occur repeatedly. It's also recommended if your healthcare provider suggests allergy evaluation, or if you work in environments with mushroom exposure like restaurants or farms. Testing is valuable for pre-emptive screening if you have a history of other allergies.
How do I interpret the results?
IgE < 0.10 kU/L – Normal/Negative
- What it means: Mushroom allergy unlikely
- Typical action: No restrictions needed
IgE 0.10–0.69 kU/L – Low positive
- What it means: Minimal sensitization
- Typical action: Monitor symptoms, consider retesting
IgE ≥ 0.70 kU/L – Elevated/Positive
- What it means: Likely mushroom allergy
- Typical action: Avoid exposure
IgE ≥ 17.5 kU/L – Very high
- What it means: High risk of severe reactions
- Typical action: Strict avoidance, emergency plan recommended
Elevated IgE levels suggest sensitization and likely clinical allergy, especially when correlated with your symptom history.
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 needed for this test. You don't need to fast or adjust medications unless specifically advised by your healthcare provider. Wear clothing with easy access to your arm for the blood draw, and stay hydrated before your visit.
How often should I get tested?
- Initial screening – Once, if negative
- Positive result with symptoms – No routine retesting needed
- New or worsening symptoms – Retest as clinically indicated
- Monitoring treatment response – As directed by allergist
Why early detection matters
Early identification of mushroom allergy prevents severe allergic reactions, including potentially life-threatening anaphylaxis. Prompt diagnosis enables proper avoidance strategies, reduces emergency healthcare visits, and improves quality of life (PMC 2024). With mushroom spores being as prevalent as pollen in some environments, knowing your allergy status is crucial for both dietary choices and environmental safety.
Related tests you may consider
IgE Food Allergy Advanced Test, Serum - Mosaic Diagnostics Test Kit — Screens for multiple food allergens if you have unexplained reactions or multiple sensitivities.
IgE Mold Allergy Test, Serum - Mosaic Diagnostics Test Kit — Since mushrooms and molds are related fungi, this helps identify broader fungal sensitivities.
Total IgE Test — Measures overall allergic antibody levels to assess general allergy severity and monitor treatment response.
