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Swine Allergy Test

A pig allergy blood test measures IgE antibodies against swine epithelium, the skin and tissue cells of pigs. It helps investigate respiratory or skin symptoms tied to pig or hog exposure.

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Typical turnaround
1-3 business days
Starting price
From $49
Results
Confidential, online

Quick answer

The pig allergy test is a blood test that measures immunoglobulin E antibodies against swine epithelium, the tissue and skin cells shed by pigs. It is ordered when contact with pigs or hogs is followed by nasal congestion, coughing, wheezing, or skin symptoms. Swine allergens can also appear in some occupational and laboratory settings. A qualified healthcare provider interprets the result with the person's exposure history.

What this test measures

Swine epithelium refers to the skin and tissue cells shed by pigs. These particles can become airborne in barns, pens, and farm environments, and they may also be present in laboratory or veterinary settings. Sensitive people may develop allergy symptoms after inhaling them, including sneezing, a stuffy nose, cough, and in some cases asthma-like breathing changes.

The test measures allergen-specific IgE in a serum sample. It reports a quantitative level and usually a reactivity class for swine epithelium. A single blood draw is required. Because animal allergens from different species can overlap, results are often reviewed alongside tests for other animal epithelia such as cat, dog, and horse.

Farm workers, veterinarians, laboratory staff, and people who keep pigs may be offered this test when symptoms occur around animals. Sensitization on a blood test shows the immune system recognizes swine allergens, but it does not confirm that every symptom is caused by exposure. Clinicians consider the result with the person's history and environment.

  • Swine (pig) epithelium-specific IgE antibodies
  • Quantitative allergen-specific IgE level
  • IgE reactivity class for swine epithelium
  • Total serum IgE
  • Cross-reactive mammalian allergen components
  • Related animal epithelium allergens within the panel

Why people order this test

  • Investigate respiratory or skin symptoms tied to pig exposure
  • Support evaluation of farm, veterinary, or laboratory exposure
  • Assess animal sensitization as part of a broader workup
  • Compare reactivity across several animal epithelia
  • Provide objective information before discussing exposure changes with a provider
  • Follow up on symptoms that worsen around barns or pens
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How to prepare

No fasting is required. A blood sample is collected from a vein, usually at the arm. Follow any instructions about timing or current medications.

Understanding your results

Results are generally reported within one to three business days. The report shows the specific IgE level and a reactivity class for swine epithelium. An elevated result indicates sensitization, and a healthcare provider can interpret it in context.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is swine epithelium?

It is the mixture of skin and tissue cells shed by pigs. Airborne particles from it can trigger allergic symptoms in sensitive people.

Who might need this test?

People who work with or live near pigs, as well as veterinary and laboratory staff exposed to animal tissue, may be offered it when symptoms suggest an allergy.

How is the sample collected?

A small blood sample is drawn from a vein. The serum is tested for IgE antibodies that react to swine epithelium.

Do I need to fast?

Fasting is not required for this test unless it is combined with another panel that needs it.

What does a positive result mean?

It shows sensitization to swine allergens. Whether symptoms are caused by that exposure depends on the person's environment and sensitivity, which a provider evaluates.

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Medical disclaimer. The information on LabOrdering.com is educational only and is not medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Reference ranges and clinical guidance vary between laboratories. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider about your own results and care.