Test library
Pine Nut Sensitivity Test
This blood test measures IgE antibodies to pine nut, also called pignoles. It helps assess sensitization to this edible seed found in pesto and many dishes.
Order Pine Nut (Pignoles) 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 Pine Nut (Pignoles) Allergy Test- Typical turnaround
- 1-3 business days
- Starting price
- From $49
- Results
- Confidential, online
Quick answer
The Pine Nut Allergy Test is a blood test that checks for IgE antibodies against pine nut, the edible seed harvested from certain pine trees and known in some cuisines as pignoles. Pine nuts appear in pesto, salads, baked goods, and traditional dishes, and reactions can range from oral itching to skin or digestive symptoms. The test helps show whether sensitization to pine nut proteins is present.
What this test measures
Pine nut is a seed rather than a true tree nut, but it is often grouped with tree nuts in food labeling because reactions can occur. Its proteins can bind IgE in sensitized people, and a blood test measures the concentration of pine nut-specific IgE. The result indicates whether the immune system has developed antibodies against the seed and supports a broader clinical assessment.
Only a blood sample is required, and results are typically reported as a quantitative value in kilounits per liter with a graded class. Some orders include total serum IgE or a wider nut and seed panel, since people with pine nut allergy may also react to other seeds or nuts. Component testing is available for some foods but is less standardized for pine nut.
People who notice symptoms after eating pine nuts or pesto may order this test, as may those with other food allergies being evaluated for additional sensitizations. It can also help clarify reactions to mixed dishes where several ingredients could be responsible. A qualified healthcare provider should interpret the result with the person's reaction history and examination.
- Pine nut (pignoles) specific IgE antibodies
- Quantitative allergen-specific IgE in kU/L
- Allergen-specific IgE class on a graded scale
- Total serum IgE when included
- Serum eosinophil count when included in the order
- Related seed and nut extract markers when an expanded food panel is ordered
Why people order this test
- Investigate symptoms after eating pine nuts or pesto
- Assess seed sensitization in people with other food allergies
- Add detail to a broader food or nut allergy evaluation
- Follow up on a positive food allergy screening result
- Help clarify reactions to mixed dishes containing several ingredients
- Support avoidance discussions with a qualified healthcare provider
How to prepare
No fasting is necessary. A blood sample is collected at the lab, and normal eating and drinking beforehand are generally fine. Follow the lab's instructions for any other tests in the order.
Understanding your results
Results are usually available within one to three business days. A positive result indicates sensitization to pine nut proteins, while a negative result makes pine nut allergy less likely. A healthcare provider should interpret the finding with your symptoms.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is pine nut a tree nut?
Botanically, pine nut is the seed of a pine tree rather than a true nut. However, it is often grouped with tree nuts in allergen labeling and food allergy discussions.
What are pignoles?
Pignoles is another name for pine nuts, used in some regions and cuisines. The terms refer to the same edible seed.
Can pine nut allergy be serious?
Reactions vary between individuals and can range from mild to more significant. Anyone with a history of severe reactions should seek guidance from a qualified healthcare provider.
Does roasting pine nuts change the allergy risk?
Heating can alter some proteins, but it does not reliably remove allergenicity for all people. Discuss specific food preparation questions with your healthcare provider.
How is the sample collected?
A small blood sample is drawn from a vein during a short lab visit, with no skin testing involved.
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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