Food Allergy Basic Panel in Arizona

What this test measures

Food allergy testing looks for allergen-specific IgE antibodies, the type involved in immediate reactions such as hives, swelling, and in some cases breathing difficulty. A panel format screens several foods at once, which is useful when the specific trigger is unclear or when a broad evaluation is needed.

The test requires one blood draw. The laboratory reports a quantitative IgE level and a reactivity class for each food. The 15-food panel typically covers milk, egg white, wheat, soy, peanut, shrimp, cod, walnut, almond, corn, tomato, strawberry, scallop, sesame, and chicken, though the exact list can vary by laboratory.

A positive result indicates sensitization and does not always mean a food will cause symptoms. Many people have detectable antibodies without reacting, so results are interpreted with a symptom and diet history. A qualified healthcare provider decides whether additional evaluation, such as an elimination trial or supervised challenge, is appropriate.