Quick Facts
- Sample: Blood
- Fasting: Not required
- Turn-around: 2-5 business days. May take longer based on weather, holiday, or lab delays.
Benefits
- Precise diagnosis using advanced immunoassay technology for accurate results
- No preparation needed – convenient testing without fasting or medication adjustments
- Fast results delivered within 2-5 business days for timely health decisions
- Prevent severe reactions by identifying plum sensitivity before symptoms worsen
- Cross-reactivity insights for related fruits in the Rosaceae family
Who Is This Test For?
- Individuals experiencing unexplained symptoms after eating or handling plums
- People with known allergies to cherries, peaches, or other Rosaceae fruits
- Those considering allergen immunotherapy who need baseline sensitization levels
- Anyone seeking to differentiate allergic from non-allergic causes of symptoms
- Individuals with oral allergy syndrome looking to identify trigger foods
How It Works – Just 3 Steps
- Order your test online and visit a lab location near you
- Provide a blood sample – no fasting or special preparation required
- Get results in 2-5 business days
FAQ
What does this test measure? Plum-specific IgE antibodies in your blood that indicate allergic sensitization.
Can I eat plums before the test? Yes, eating plums won't affect your results – no dietary restrictions needed.
Will this detect all plum allergies? It detects IgE-mediated reactions but not non-IgE allergies or food intolerances.
What if I'm allergic to other stone fruits? Cross-reactivity is common among Rosaceae fruits like cherries and peaches.
Do I need a doctor's order? No physician referral required – order directly and get confidential results.
How accurate is this test? IgE tests have sensitivity and specificity rates above 85% for fruit allergies (AAAAI 2023).
More Details
What is the purpose of this test?
This test measures allergen-specific Immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies in your blood to detect an allergic reaction to plum proteins. Using advanced Fluorescence Enzyme Immunoassay (FEIA) technology, it precisely quantifies your immune response to plums. Since plums belong to the Rosaceae family alongside cherries and peaches, this test helps identify potential cross-reactivity with related fruits (Mayo Clinic 2024).
Who would benefit from this test?
Anyone experiencing symptoms suspected to be plum-related should consider this test. It's particularly valuable for individuals with existing allergies to stone fruits, those planning allergen immunotherapy, or people with oral allergy syndrome. Health-conscious consumers seeking proactive allergy management will find this test provides clear answers for lifestyle adjustments (CDC 2023).
When should I order a Plum Allergy IgE Blood Test?
Order this test when experiencing suspected allergic symptoms after consuming or handling plums, including tingling around the mouth, hives, swelling, digestive issues, or respiratory problems. It's also recommended before starting allergen immunotherapy or when investigating unexplained allergic reactions. Since food allergy symptoms typically occur within two hours but can be delayed up to six hours, testing helps confirm the connection between plums and your symptoms.
How do I interpret the results?
IgE < 0.35 kUA/L
- What it means: No sensitization detected
- Typical action: Plum allergy unlikely
IgE 0.35–0.69 kUA/L
- What it means: Low sensitization
- Typical action: Monitor symptoms, consider allergist consultation
IgE 0.70–3.49 kUA/L
- What it means: Moderate sensitization
- Typical action: Avoid plums, carry antihistamines
IgE 3.50–17.49 kUA/L
- What it means: High sensitization
- Typical action: Strict avoidance, consider epinephrine prescription
IgE ≥ 17.50 kUA/L
- What it means: Very high sensitization
- Typical action: Complete avoidance, emergency action plan needed
Higher IgE levels correlate with increased likelihood of clinical reactions, but symptoms severity varies individually.
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, avoid medications, or make dietary changes. The test can be performed at any time, making it convenient for your schedule. Simply arrive at the lab for a standard blood draw.
How often should I get tested?
- Initial diagnosis: Baseline test, then as needed
- Monitoring therapy: Every 6–12 months during treatment
- Symptom changes: When new reactions occur
- Before immunotherapy: Baseline and periodic monitoring
Why early detection matters
Food allergies affect approximately 8% of children and 4% of adults in the U.S., with fruit allergies being common triggers for oral allergy syndrome (CDC 2023). Early detection prevents emergency visits due to anaphylaxis and improves quality of life through effective avoidance strategies. Identifying plum sensitivity helps you make informed dietary choices and carry appropriate emergency medications when prescribed (PubMed Central 2020).
Related tests you may consider
Peach Allergy IgE Blood Test - Measures the IgE antibody levels in the blood to detect an allergy to peaches.
Immunoglobulin E Blood Test, Total, IgE - Measures the total IgE antibody levels in the blood to assess the likelihood of experiencing allergic reactions.
IgG Food Antibodies (87 IgG Foods + Total IgE) - Genova Test Kit - Measures antibodies to 87 commonly consumed foods and provides a total IgE measurement to screen for food allergies or sensitivities.
Cherry Allergy IgE Blood Test - Measures the amount of allergen-specific IgE antibodies in the blood to detect an allergy to cherries.
