What is the Individual Allergen test?

The Individual Allergen test, also known as a specific IgE test, measures the immune system’s response to one specific allergen. This could be a food, pollen, animal dander, mould, insect venom, or environmental substance.

When the body is sensitised to an allergen, it produces IgE antibodies directed specifically against that trigger. Measuring allergen-specific IgE allows targeted identification of allergic sensitisation rather than general allergy tendency.

This test is commonly used when symptoms point to a particular suspected allergen and precise identification is required.

Why do I need an Individual Allergen test?

Identifying the exact allergen responsible for symptoms allows targeted avoidance, treatment, and improved symptom control.

You may need an Individual Allergen test if you:

• Have symptoms after eating a specific food
• Experience seasonal allergy symptoms
• React to pets, dust, mould or pollen
• Have eczema, asthma or hay fever
• Have unexplained allergic reactions
• Need confirmation of a suspected allergen
• Want to avoid broad or unnecessary testing

Symptoms commonly linked to allergen sensitisation include:

• Sneezing and nasal congestion
• Itchy or watery eyes
• Skin rashes or hives
• Digestive discomfort after foods
• Wheezing or shortness of breath
• Swelling of lips, face or throat

Benefits of the Individual Allergen test

• Pinpoints the exact allergen
  Focused testing for specific triggers.
• More precise than total IgE testing
  Identifies individual sensitisation.
• Supports targeted avoidance strategies
  Improves symptom control.
• Useful for food and environmental allergies
  Wide range of allergens available.
• Clinically recognised diagnostic tool
  Used in allergy and immunology care.
• Safe and non-exposure based
  No need to provoke allergic reactions.
• Supports asthma and eczema management
  Identifies underlying allergic drivers.
• Simple blood test
  No skin testing required.

Step by step – how the test works

You can access Individual Allergen testing UK-wide through two options:

1. Clinic appointment
   Attend your nearest UK clinic, where a healthcare professional will take your blood sample.
2. At-home or hotel visit (£60 extra)
   A qualified phlebotomist comes to your home or hotel, so you don’t need to travel.

Your blood sample is analysed in an accredited UK laboratory for allergen-specific IgE, and results are delivered securely.

Your results explained

Low or undetectable specific IgE

No sensitisation detected to the tested allergen.

Typical UK interpretation:

• < 0.35 kUA/L

Moderate specific IgE levels

Indicates sensitisation; symptoms may occur on exposure.

Typical UK interpretation:

• 0.35–3.5 kUA/L

High specific IgE levels

Strong sensitisation with higher likelihood of clinical reaction.

Typical UK interpretation:

• > 3.5 kUA/L

Clinical symptoms and exposure history are essential when interpreting results.