Allergy – Dust Panel Also known as: Allergy Panel – Dust Price, Normal Range, Procedure, Result

The Allergy Dust Panel test is done:

• To identify the specific allergens that may be causing symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, coughing, wheezing, or difficulty breathing.
• To help determine the best course of treatment for allergies, including the use of allergen-specific immunotherapy (ASIT) or other medications.
• To help identify and avoid exposure to allergens that may be causing allergic symptoms.
• To help evaluate the effectiveness of environmental control measures and to identify areas where these measures need improvement.
• To provide a baseline for future monitoring of allergen levels in the environment.
• To provide a diagnostic tool to identify the cause of atypical allergic symptoms such as rhinitis, asthma or other respiratory symptoms.

Dust allergy panel test measures the IgE-mediated response to 4 sources of inhalant dust. These include:

1. House Dust (Greer Labs)
2. D Farinae
3. D Pteronsysinus
4. Cockroach

Total IgE levels are also measured. 

Dust allergy panel test requires a blood sample post exposure to the allergens. A tourniquet (elastic) band is placed tightly on the upper arm. The patient is then asked to make a fist. This helps in the build-up of blood filling the veins. The skin is disinfected before needle insertion and the blood sample is collected in vacutainer. 

Positive result to an allergen indicates that the person is allergic to it. Increased allergen-specific IgE levels further confirms that. Very often the test may be positive for more than one allergen as well. The further treatment course is decided based on the results. Based on the symptom, age, environmental allergens, and region wise allergens further testing may be required for specific diagnosis. 
Negative result may require other tests for differential diagnosis. 

It is typically done when a person is experiencing symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, coughing etc, that may be caused by exposure to allergens.

No specific preparations are typically required for patients before an Allergy Dust Panel test. However, it is best to consult with the allergist or healthcare provider who ordered the test for any specific instructions regarding the preparation.

The test can tell what specific allergens are present in the dust sample and at what levels, but it cannot tell us why a person is experiencing allergic symptoms or diagnose a specific allergy. Additionally, it does not provide information on exposure to allergens from other sources such as pollen, mold, and pet dander. A proper medical evaluation is needed to determine the cause of allergic symptoms and to recommend treatment.

Dust allergy is not permanent, but it can be chronic. Some of the steps we can take to reduce our exposure to dust include avoiding dusty areas, using an air purifier, and dusting regularly.

It requires ongoing management through allergen avoidance measures and treatment options, such as medication or allergen-specific immunotherapy.

• Allergen Dust Panel test
• Dust Allergy Panel test
• Dust Mite Allergy Panel test

The dust allergy panel test is a diagnostic tool that measures your body’s immune response to four common sources of inhalant dust: House Dust, Dermatophagoides farinae, Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus, and cockroach allergens. It helps identify if you have a dust allergy.

Yes, home sample collection is available for the dust allergy panel test. A trained phlebotomist can visit your home to collect blood samples, maintaining high standards of accuracy and safety. This service provides convenience and saves you a trip to the clinic.

Normal levels for the dust allergy panel test are indicated by low or undetectable levels of allergen-specific IgE antibodies. The specific numerical values can vary depending on the laboratory and testing method used.

The dust allergy panel test is used to identify specific allergens causing symptoms, determine the best treatment course, help avoid allergen exposure, evaluate environmental control measures, and diagnose atypical allergic symptoms.

The frequency of dust allergy panel testing depends on your individual health needs and symptoms. It is typically done when symptoms persist or worsen, or as part of ongoing allergy management. Consult your doctor for personalised recommendations.

There is no specific time of day recommended for the dust allergy panel test. As it is a blood test, it can be performed at any time. However, it’s best to follow the schedule provided by your healthcare provider or the laboratory.

Fasting is not typically required for the dust allergy panel test. As it measures IgE levels in your blood, the test results are not dependent on food intake.

Before the dust allergy test, inform your doctor about any medications you are taking, especially antihistamines. Also, discuss any recent travels or changes in location that might have exposed you to different allergens, as this could influence the test results.

The parameters included in the dust allergy panel test are:

• IgE levels specific to House Dust
• IgE levels specific to Dermatophagoides farinae
• IgE levels specific to Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus
• IgE levels specific to cockroach allergens
• Total IgE levels

The dust allergy panel test should be done when you are experiencing symptoms that may be caused by exposure to dust allergens, such as sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, coughing, or difficulty breathing.

The blood collection process for the dust allergy panel test is quick and typically takes a few minutes. However, the overall visit to the laboratory might take about 15-30 minutes, including preparation and post-test care.

The turnaround time for dust allergy panel test reports varies depending on the laboratory. Typically, you can expect to receive your results within 24 hours based on the day/time the sample is collected and processed.