Test library
HDI Specific IgE Test
The HDI Allergy Test measures IgE antibodies to hexamethylene diisocyanate, a chemical used in polyurethane coatings and foams. It helps assess sensitization in people whose breathing or skin symptoms follow workplace exposure.
Order Hexamethylene Diisocyanate (HDI) Allergy Test
Order online and visit a local collection site, or choose an at-home kit where available. No referral and no insurance required.
Order Hexamethylene Diisocyanate (HDI) Allergy Test- Typical turnaround
- 1-3 business days
- Starting price
- From $49
- Results
- Confidential, online
Quick answer
The HDI Allergy Test is a blood test that looks for IgE antibodies against hexamethylene diisocyanate, one of the isocyanate chemicals used to make polyurethane coatings, adhesives, and foams. Isocyanates are a well-known cause of work-related asthma and skin reactions. The test helps determine whether symptoms that follow exposure involve an allergic sensitization to HDI.
What this test measures
Hexamethylene diisocyanate belongs to the isocyanate family, a group of reactive chemicals used widely in industry. Polyurethane paints, varnishes, adhesives, and flexible foams are common sources. Exposure can occur during spraying, mixing, or curing, and the chemical can also be present in cured products in small amounts.
The test measures specific IgE antibodies in a blood sample. A detectable level indicates that the immune system has been sensitized to HDI, which is more common in people with repeated occupational exposure. Sensitization is not the same as a diagnosis, but it raises the likelihood that exposure is contributing to symptoms.
Workers in auto body shops, furniture manufacturing, construction, and other industries that use polyurethane products may be offered this test when they report wheezing, chest tightness, a runny nose, or skin problems that appear or worsen at work. A qualified healthcare provider should interpret the result with the exposure history and other testing.
- HDI-specific IgE antibodies
- Quantitative sIgE concentration reported in kU/L
- Allergen-specific IgE class on a graded scale
- Total serum IgE when included
- Blood eosinophil count when included
- Related isocyanate markers such as MDI or TDI when a panel is ordered
Why people order this test
- Assess sensitization after workplace exposure to polyurethane products
- Help evaluate work-related breathing or skin symptoms
- Add objective information to an occupational health assessment
- Support decisions about exposure reduction with a clinician
- Check a single isocyanate when a broader panel is not needed
- Provide context for symptoms that improve away from work
How to prepare
No fasting is required for this blood test. Follow the collection instructions provided by the laboratory, and be ready to describe the products, tasks, and timing associated with the symptoms being evaluated.
Understanding your results
Results are usually available within one to three business days. A detectable HDI-specific IgE level indicates sensitization, but not everyone who is sensitized develops symptoms, and some reactions are not IgE-mediated. A qualified healthcare provider should interpret the findings.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is hexamethylene diisocyanate?
HDI is a reactive chemical in the isocyanate family. It is used to make polyurethane coatings, paints, adhesives, and foams.
Where does HDI exposure occur?
Exposure is most common in auto body refinishing, furniture and foam manufacturing, construction, and other settings where polyurethane products are sprayed or handled.
What does a positive result mean?
A positive result shows that the immune system has been sensitized to HDI. It supports further evaluation when work-related symptoms are present but does not confirm a diagnosis by itself.
Can I have symptoms with a negative test?
Yes. Some occupational reactions are not IgE-mediated, and a negative result does not rule out a work-related condition. A healthcare provider can assess the full picture.
Should I also test for other isocyanates?
If exposure may involve more than one isocyanate, a panel that includes MDI and TDI can provide a more complete assessment. The testing provider can help select the right panel.
Ready to get tested?
Order online and visit a collection site near you, or choose a mail-in kit. No referral and no insurance required.
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