Test library
Phthalic Anhydride Specific IgE Test
This blood test measures IgE antibodies to phthalic anhydride, a reactive industrial chemical. It helps assess sensitization in people exposed to acid anhydrides at work.
Order Phthalic Anhydride 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 Phthalic Anhydride Allergy Test- Typical turnaround
- 1-3 business days
- Starting price
- From $49
- Results
- Confidential, online
Quick answer
The Phthalic Anhydride Allergy Test is a blood test that checks for IgE antibodies against phthalic anhydride, a reactive chemical used in resins, coatings, and plastics. Workers who handle acid anhydrides can develop occupational allergy symptoms such as rhinitis, eye irritation, or asthma-like breathing changes. The test helps show whether the immune system has become sensitized to this chemical, and it is interpreted with the person's work exposure and symptoms.
What this test measures
Phthalic anhydride belongs to the acid anhydride family, a group of highly reactive chemicals used in manufacturing epoxy resins, alkyd coatings, and plasticizers. Because these small chemicals can bind to body proteins, they can act as haptens and prompt the immune system to produce specific IgE antibodies. A blood test measures IgE that binds phthalic anhydride, indicating whether sensitization has developed.
Results are usually reported as a quantitative concentration in kilounits per liter with a graded class. Related acid anhydrides such as trimellitic anhydride, maleic anhydride, and hexahydrophthalic anhydride may be included when an expanded panel is ordered, because exposure and cross-reactivity can overlap. Total serum IgE may also be reported in a broader occupational allergy workup.
People who work with resins, paints, plastics, or industrial coatings may order this test when they notice recurring nasal, eye, or respiratory symptoms at work. It can also support an occupational health evaluation when chemical exposure is suspected. A qualified healthcare provider should interpret the result with the person's job tasks, exposure history, and other clinical findings.
- Phthalic anhydride-specific IgE antibodies
- Quantitative allergen-specific IgE in kU/L
- Allergen-specific IgE class on a graded scale
- Trimellitic anhydride-specific IgE when an expanded acid anhydride panel is ordered
- Maleic anhydride-specific IgE when an expanded acid anhydride panel is ordered
- Hexahydrophthalic anhydride-specific IgE when an expanded acid anhydride panel is ordered
- Total serum IgE when included
- Serum eosinophil count when included in the order
Why people order this test
- Investigate work-related nasal, eye, or respiratory symptoms
- Assess chemical sensitization in epoxy, coating, or plastics manufacturing
- Add detail to an occupational allergy evaluation
- Check related acid anhydride sensitization when a panel is ordered
- Follow up on a previous occupational screening result
- Support discussions about exposure controls with an occupational health professional
How to prepare
No fasting is required for this test. A blood sample is collected at the lab, and normal meals beforehand are fine. Provide the laboratory and ordering provider with information about your work exposures and medications.
Understanding your results
Results are typically available within one to three business days. A positive result suggests sensitization to phthalic anhydride, while a negative result makes that sensitization less likely. A qualified healthcare provider should interpret the result with your work history and symptoms.
Phthalic Anhydride Specific IgE Test by state
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Arkansas
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Connecticut
Phthalic Anhydride Specific IgE Test across Connecticut.
Delaware
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Florida
Phthalic Anhydride Specific IgE Test across Florida.
Georgia
Phthalic Anhydride Specific IgE Test across Georgia.
Hawaii
Phthalic Anhydride Specific IgE Test across Hawaii.
Idaho
Phthalic Anhydride Specific IgE Test across Idaho.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is phthalic anhydride used for?
It is an industrial chemical used to make resins, coatings, plasticizers, and other products. Workers can be exposed during manufacturing and handling.
Can this test tell the difference between allergy and irritation?
This test measures IgE antibodies, which reflect allergic sensitization. Irritant effects are not detected by antibody testing, so the result is combined with your history to distinguish the two.
Who is at risk of sensitization?
People who regularly work with acid anhydrides, epoxy resins, or industrial coatings may have higher exposure. Not everyone exposed develops sensitization.
Should my coworkers be tested too?
Testing decisions depend on individual symptoms and the workplace health program. Discuss screening with an occupational health professional.
How is the sample collected?
A small blood sample is drawn from a vein during a short lab visit.
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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