How do you test different types of food allergies? | Food allergy testing

How do you test different types of food allergies?

As described above, according to the current state of knowledge, only one type of food allergy exists. One speaks here of the immediate type or type I. The existence of food allergies of the delayed type or type III has so far been scientifically disputed and not sufficiently proven.

Type I food allergies are investigated on the basis of a detailed medical history as well as a prick test and blood test (RAST test). In order to detect food allergies of the delayed type (type III), which currently does not exist with certainty, tests have been developed that are specifically designed to detect IgG antibodies in the patient’s blood. However, their usefulness is still uncertain due to the controversial existence of type III food allergy. According to current recommendations, the prick test and the RAST test continue to be the tests of choice in the diagnosis of food allergies. Similar topics for further information:

• Allergy to apples
• Cross Allergy

What does IgG mean?

IgG is an antibody type of the human immune system. A total of 5 different antibody classes are distinguished here.Class A, D, E, G, and M antibodies. IgG is produced as part of the delayed immune response and is sustained over a relatively long period of time.

IgG antibodies against certain pathogens, for example, indicate lifelong exposure to a certain infection, such as Pfeiffer’s glandular fever or hepatitis. IgG is also a marker for a successful vaccination against certain infections such as measles or hepatitis B. According to current knowledge, IgG antibodies play only a minor role in food allergies. However, there are studies that repeatedly address the question of the significance of IgG antibodies in food allergies. For years, the existence of IgG-mediated food allergies of the delayed type has been discussed.

What does IgE mean?

IgE is also an antibody type of the human immune system. IgE antibodies are significantly involved in the development of allergies. When the body comes into contact with an allergy-causing substance (allergen), IgE antibodies cause certain cells of the immune system to release substances such as histamine.

This leads to the typical allergy symptoms such as runny nose, skin rash, itching, coughing or even shortness of breath. IgE is an essential factor in the RAST test, which checks for the presence of IgE antibodies to certain allergens.