The Allergy Non-Veg Food Panel (by ELISA) is a blood test that detects specific IgE antibodies to identify allergies to animal-based foods like fish, meat, and eggs. It uses Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) to measure immune responses, costing approximately ₹700-₹3,600, with reports often available in 24-48 hours. It helps diagnose allergies causing skin rashes, respiratory issues, or digestive problems.
Key Aspects of the Non-Veg Allergy Panel:
Targeted Allergens: Commonly tests for beef, chicken, mutton, pork, various fish (cod, salmon, tuna), and shellfish (shrimp, crab, scallop).
Methodology: The ELISA technique identifies specific IgE antibodies in the blood, indicating a sensitivity to particular allergens.
Preparation: No fasting is required.
Usefulness: It is crucial for identifying foodborne allergens that cause, for example, hives, eczema, or asthma.
Limitations: While helpful, ELISA tests for food allergies should be interpreted by a specialist, as some tests might have varying reliability, and the oral challenge test is considered more definitive.