IgG Food antibodies (Sensitivity Test)

Description

What this test will show

The test assesses whether antibodies to 87* commonly consumed foods are circulating in the blood. Circulating IgG antibodies indicate an immune response to that food. This test relates to food sensitivities rather than true allergies.

Analytes assessed include:

An IgG immune response to certain foods generally presents as a delayed onset sensitivity to those foods, as opposed to an IgE mediated allergic type reaction with immediate onset of symptoms such as anaphylaxis.

An IgG immune reaction may not necessarily occur at the time of eating, symptoms may occur hours or days later. Histamine release is not stimulated in sensitivity reactions, only in true allergic responses. The sensitivity is normally temporary and can be overcome with an appropriate treatment plan/dietary protocol, which would typically involve investigating if the patient has leaky gut, and first addressing this. Leaky gut allows larger particles of food to leak through the small intestine into the bloodstream – this incites an inflammatory response and the release of IgG antibodies.

Who this test is for

This test is for those who suspect that a certain food may be irritating them, but they can’t quite identify what due to the time lag in presentation of symptoms. Testing will give you the answer, and you can then choose to give that particular food up, or undertake a gut protocol to overcome the sensitivity so you can once again enjoy that food without experiencing symptoms.

Symptoms typically include gut symptoms (bloating, flatulence, pain, distention), headaches, rashes, joint aches and other vague symptoms. IBS, depression, autoimmune conditions, Crohn’s disease, obesity, migraines and eczema are also associated with IgG mediated food sensitivities.

Sample type: Blood – you will need to arrange to attend one of our phlebotomy clinics to get a blood draw; click here to find your nearest clinic, surgery or hospital offering this service.

Turnaround time: 12 days

Before taking this test: Eat a variety of foods in the 2-3 weeks prior to testing, other than those which you know you have a true (IgE mediated) allergy to.

IgG testing can be done from the age of 1.

Conditions which may influence test results: Antibody testing may be inaccurate if the patient has liver disease, severe kidney disease, protein-losing enteropathy from gastrointestinal tract damage, HIV infection, or other immunodeficiencies.

Viruses such as Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), rubella, and cytomegalovirus (CMV) can be associated with lower antibody levels.

Results may be skewed in patients with rheumatological pathologies associated with the production of heterophilic antibodies such as rheumatoid factor (RF).

Medications which may influence test results: glucocorticoids including oral prednisone, steroid metered-dose inhaler, cortisone cream; chemotherapy; other immunosuppressive agents (eg humira, rituxan); NSAIDS (ibuprofen, naproxen, aspirin); anticonvulsants (carbamazepine, valproate); omalizumab, which is a monoclonal antibody designed to bind to free serum IgE. Whilst stopping these medications will produce a more accurate result, we do not recommend stopping any prescription or over the counter medications without first consulting with your healthcare provider.