What is the Dairy IgE Allergy Panel?

The Dairy IgE Allergy Panel is a blood test that measures Immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies to specific dairy proteins. IgE antibodies are responsible for immediate-type allergic reactions, which typically occur within minutes to two hours after exposure.

This test focuses on dairy allergens such as cow’s milk proteins, helping to confirm whether symptoms are caused by a true immune-mediated allergy rather than intolerance or delayed sensitivity. IgE-mediated reactions can range from mild symptoms to severe, potentially life-threatening responses.

Dairy IgE testing is a clinically recognised method used in allergy medicine to support diagnosis, risk assessment, and avoidance planning.

Why do I need a Dairy IgE Allergy Panel?

A dairy allergy can cause rapid and unpredictable reactions, and in some cases may lead to anaphylaxis. Identifying a true IgE-mediated allergy is essential for safety, dietary management, and emergency planning.

This test is particularly important when symptoms occur shortly after consuming milk or dairy products.

You may need a Dairy IgE Allergy Panel if you experience:

• Hives or skin rash after dairy intake
• Swelling of lips, tongue, face, or throat
• Itching of the mouth or throat
• Wheezing, coughing, or shortness of breath
• Nausea, vomiting, or abdominal pain
• Dizziness or fainting
• Rapid onset symptoms after milk exposure
• Suspected childhood milk allergy

Unlike food intolerances, IgE allergies can worsen over time and require strict avoidance.

Benefits of the Dairy IgE Allergy Panel

• Confirms true dairy allergy
  Identifies IgE-mediated immune reactions.
• Assesses risk of immediate reactions
  Helps evaluate potential severity.
• Supports safe dietary planning
  Guides strict avoidance where needed.
• Essential for anaphylaxis risk assessment
  Supports emergency action planning.
• Clinically recognised allergy testing
  Used in NHS and private allergy care.
• Simple blood test
  No food challenge required.
• Suitable for adults and children
  Can be used across age groups.
• Reduces diagnostic uncertainty
  Distinguishes allergy from intolerance or IgG sensitivity.

Step by step – how the test works

You can access testing UK-wide using one of the following options:

1. Clinic appointment
   Choose your nearest UK clinic. A healthcare professional will take your blood sample.
2. At-home or hotel visit (£60 extra)
   A qualified phlebotomist visits your home or hotel, allowing you to test without travelling.

Samples are analysed in a UK laboratory, and results are delivered securely.

Your results explained

Negative / low IgE levels

Indicate no evidence of IgE-mediated dairy allergy. Symptoms may be due to intolerance or non-allergic sensitivity.

Typical UK reference range:

• < 0.35 kUA/L

Moderate IgE levels

Suggest sensitisation to dairy proteins. Clinical relevance depends on symptoms and exposure history.

Typical UK interpretation:

• 0.35–3.5 kUA/L

High IgE levels

Indicate a strong allergic response to dairy proteins and increased risk of immediate reactions.

Typical UK interpretation:

• > 3.5 kUA/L

Exact thresholds may vary slightly by laboratory and must be interpreted alongside symptoms.