Radioallergosorbent

Radioallergosorbent test (RAST) is a blood test used to determine the substances a subject is allergic to. This is different from a skin allergy test, which determines allergy by the reaction of a person's skin to different substances.

Procedure

The Radioallergosorbent test is a blood test, and therefore, does not require any special preparation. The blood sample is taken from a vein in the arm. The sample is then sent to a laboratory where it is tested for the presence of IgE, the antibodies produced by the immune system in response to an allergic reaction.

Uses

The RAST test is used to determine what substances a person is allergic to. These substances, known as allergens, can include foods, dust, plant spores, animal dander, and chemicals. The test is often used when a patient has a history of reactions to certain substances, especially in cases where skin tests cannot be performed or are likely to give false results.

Limitations

While the RAST test can determine the presence of IgE antibodies, it does not measure the severity of an allergic reaction. In addition, the test may not detect all types of allergies, as some allergic reactions are not mediated by IgE antibodies.

See also

• Allergy
• Skin allergy test
• IgE antibodies

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