Test library
Rat IgE Allergy Test
This blood test measures IgE antibodies against rat epithelium, the cells and tissue that make up rat skin. It helps assess allergic sensitization in people who live or work around rats.
Order Rat 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 Rat Allergy Test- Typical turnaround
- 1-3 business days
- Starting price
- From $49
- Results
- Confidential, online
Quick answer
The Rat Allergy Test is a blood test that checks for IgE antibodies against rat epithelium, the material from rat skin and tissue. It is intended for people who keep rats as pets, breed them, or handle them in laboratory and animal-care settings. The test shows whether the immune system has become sensitized to rat proteins and is read together with the person's symptoms and exposure history.
What this test measures
Rat epithelium extracts contain proteins shed from skin and tissue. When these proteins are inhaled, a sensitized immune system can respond with sneezing, nasal congestion, itchy eyes, or asthma-like symptoms. The test measures circulating IgE that recognizes the epithelium extract, which helps identify whether rat exposure is a plausible contributor to those symptoms.
A single blood draw is all that is required, so no skin prick testing or direct contact with the allergen is needed. Results are typically reported as a quantitative antibody level in kilounits per liter with a corresponding class. A broader rodent or inhalant panel may be ordered at the same time to check for reactions to mice, hamsters, guinea pigs, or common aeroallergens.
Laboratory technicians, animal facility staff, pet owners, and hobbyists are among those who may seek this test. It is also useful when symptoms appear or worsen around cages, bedding, or confined animal rooms. Interpretation should consider the degree of exposure, the timing of symptoms, and other allergy results.
- Rat epithelium-specific IgE antibodies
- Quantitative rat epithelium IgE in kU/L
- Allergen-specific IgE antibody class
- Total serum IgE when included
- Serum eosinophil count when included
- Related rodent allergens when a broader panel is ordered
- Common inhalant allergens when included in the panel
Why people order this test
- Check whether symptoms flare around pet or laboratory rats
- Support a work-related allergy assessment for animal handlers
- Distinguish rat sensitization from other rodent allergens
- Add detail to a broader inhalant allergy panel
- Evaluate nasal, eye, or breathing symptoms tied to animal rooms
How to prepare
No fasting is required, and the blood sample can be drawn at any convenient time. Follow the lab's instructions about timing and hydration, and note any medications the ordering clinician has asked about.
Understanding your results
Results are usually available within one to three business days. A positive result indicates sensitization to rat epithelium rather than a confirmed clinical allergy, so it is interpreted with the person's exposure and symptom pattern. A qualified healthcare provider can explain what the level means in context.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is rat epithelium?
Epithelium refers to the cells that make up skin and tissue linings. Rat epithelium extract contains proteins shed from rat skin that can become airborne and be inhaled.
Who should consider this test?
It may be useful for people who keep rats as pets or work with them in laboratories, pet stores, or animal facilities and notice allergic symptoms.
Is a blood draw safe if I have severe symptoms?
The test uses a blood sample rather than exposing the person to the allergen, but anyone with severe reactions should discuss testing with a clinician.
Can this test tell me whether I will develop asthma?
No. It only shows whether sensitization is present. A clinician evaluates that finding together with symptoms and lung function when relevant.
Does a negative result rule out rat allergy?
A negative result makes sensitization less likely, but clinical allergy evaluation can still be warranted if symptoms persist with exposure.
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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