Allergy - Weeds Pollen Panel

An Allergy-Weeds Pollen Panel is performed in cases of suspected inhalant allergies due to pollen from weeds (grasses). It helps in determining the exact source or allergen causing it.

Allergy - Weeds Pollen Panel measures the IgE-mediated response to pollen from 5 different weeds (grass):

1. Common Ragweed
2. Mugwort
3. Plantain English
4. Goosefoot
5. Salwort

Total IgE levels are also measured.

This test requires a blood sample post exposure to the allergens. A tourniquet (elastic) band is placed tightly on the upper arm. The patient is then asked to make a fist. This helps in the build-up of blood filling the veins. The skin is disinfected before needle insertion and the blood sample is collected in vacutainer. 

Positive result to an allergen indicates that the person is allergic to it. Increased allergen-specific IgE levels further confirms that. Very often the test may be positive for more than one allergen as well. Further treatment course is decided based on the results. Based on the symptom, age, environmental allergens, and region wise allergens further testing may be required for specific diagnosis. Negative results may require other tests for differential diagnosis.

Anyone experiencing one or more of the following symptoms should undergo an allergy - weeds pollen panel test:

• Itching
• Runny nose
• Sneezing
• Coughing
• Shortness of breath
• Hives
• Rashes

• The best thing to do in case of allergy to a particular weed pollen is to avoid contact with or exposure to it.
• Taking anti-allergen medication can help neutralise the effect of the allergen in case of contact or exposure.

IgE stands for Immunoglobin E, which is an antibody that helps the body fight against particular allergens. It is a type of protein.

ImmunoCAP is a reliable and accurate technique for evaluating allergen-specific IgE levels, making it an ideal choice for determining whether a person is allergic to certain substances. ImmunoCAP offers fast and easy results, so it enables getting back to daily life more quickly.

Anaphylaxis or anaphylactic shock is a fatal allergic reaction that can happen very quickly, and it can lead to several dangerous symptoms, including a rapid heart rate, a skin rash, vomiting and nausea. Any type of reaction where the airways close up requires immediate medical attention.

The most common weed/grass pollen allergies are caused by Ragweed. Others include Mugwort, Plantain English, Goosefoot, Salwort etc.

Since it is an inhalant allergy, it commonly causes respiratory symptoms like the following:

• Runny nose
• Sneezing
• Coughing
• Shortness of breath

Other skin-related symptoms may include the following:

• Itching
• Rashes
• Hives

Severe cases may also result in anaphylactic shock.