Pear IgE Blood Test

What this test measures

Pear contains allergenic proteins from the PR-10 family, such as Pyr c 1, along with other defense-related proteins. When a person is sensitized, IgE antibodies bind these proteins and can trigger symptoms after the fruit is eaten. A blood test measures the amount of pear-specific IgE present, which indicates whether sensitization has developed. It does not confirm that pear is the cause of a given reaction on its own.

The sample is collected with a routine blood draw, and results are typically reported as a quantitative value in kilounits per liter with a graded antibody class. Component testing, when included, can measure specific pear proteins and help sort out pollen-related reactions from fruit-specific ones. Expanded orders may also include total serum IgE and related Rosaceae fruit markers.

People who notice oral itching or other symptoms after eating fresh pears may order this test, especially when they also react to apple, cherry, or other related fruits. It can also be included in a broader fruit allergy evaluation when the trigger is uncertain. A qualified healthcare provider should interpret the result with the person's reaction pattern and other test findings.

• Pear-specific IgE antibodies
• Pyr c 1 (PR-10) component when component testing is included
• Lipid transfer protein components when component testing is included
• Quantitative allergen-specific IgE in kU/L
• Allergen-specific IgE class on a graded scale
• Total serum IgE when included
• Related Rosaceae fruit markers when an expanded panel is ordered

Why people order this test

• Investigate mouth itching or tingling after eating pear
• Check for cross-reactivity in people with birch pollen allergy
• Add detail to a broader fruit or food allergy evaluation
• Help separate pollen-related reactions from fruit-specific sensitivity
• Follow up on a positive fruit allergy screening result

How to prepare

No fasting is required for this test. A blood sample is drawn at the lab, and normal meals beforehand are generally fine. Follow the lab's instructions if other tests are included in the same order.

Understanding your results

Results are usually available within one to three business days. A positive result suggests sensitization to pear proteins, while a negative result makes pear allergy less likely. Interpretation should be made by a healthcare provider together with your symptoms.