Tree Nut Allergy Test Panel with Reflex to Components

The test measures the levels of specific IgE antibodies in your blood made by your immune system in response to the following allergens:

• Almond
• Brazil nut
• Cashew nut
• Hazelnut
• Macadamia nut
• Peanut
• Pecan nut
• Pistachio
• Walnut

IgE antibodies are normally found in small amounts in the blood, but larger amounts can be a sign that the body overreacts to allergens. This overreaction can cause your body to produce histamine and trigger an allergic reaction. A nut allergy is a common type of food allergy and can cause serious allergic reactions in some people. Peanut allergies in particular can cause a severe, life-threatening response. Peanuts are not the same as tree nuts. The proteins found in peanuts differ from those found in tree nuts. Tree nuts include almonds, Brazil nuts, cashew nuts, hazelnuts, pecan nuts, pistachios, and walnuts. Individuals allergic to one tree nut may not necessarily have an allergy to all tree nuts. While peanuts and tree nuts are not the same, individuals with an allergy to peanuts may have an allergic reaction similar to those with an allergy to tree nuts.

Allergies may be the cause of the following signs and symptoms, but you should discuss with your doctor to confirm. If you have any of the following, this test may be right for you:

• Abdominal pain/cramps, diarrhea, nausea or vomiting
• Rash, welts, hives or eczema
• History of mild allergic reaction to a particular food
• Nasal congestion, wheezing or slight trouble breathing
• Runny nose
• Tingling, swelling, or itchiness of the mouth, throat, eyes, skin, lips, tongue, face, throat or any other area of the body

This test may not be right for you if you experience the following more severe symptoms. SEEK IMMEDIATE MEDICAL ATTENTION during your reaction. Seeing a specialist is recommend for more appropriate evaluation:

• Chest tightness
• Shortness of breath/constriction and tightening of the airways
• A swollen throat or the sensation of a lump in your throat that makes it difficult to breathe/swallow
• A severe drop in blood pressure
• Rapid pulse
• Feeling faint, dizziness or lightheadedness
• Loss of consciousness
• Anaphylaxis (a potentially life-threatening reaction that can cause itching, hives, and skin rash; swelling of the throat, lips, or tongue; and difficulty breathing, potentially causing the body to go into shock)

Most allergic reactions occur within minutes, but some may develop hours after exposure. The reaction to these allergens can vary from a stuffy nose to anaphylaxis. Anaphylactic shock occurs when a person's blood pressure drops so severely that the body's cells and tissues do not receive enough oxygen. Due to the severity of a possible allergic reaction, it's crucial to work with your healthcare provider to determine an optimal treatment and prevention plan.