How to Read Peanut Allergy Test Results: What the Numbers Mean
Test numbers need to be understood together with symptoms and eating history. Looking at the numbers alone can lead to wrong conclusions.
Common test methods
- Skin prick test: the size of the local wheal and redness is observed
- Specific IgE test: a blood sample is taken to check the level of antibodies against peanut proteins
- Component testing: distinguishes different sensitising proteins to help assess the pattern of risk
- Food challenge: carried out in a medical setting following standard procedures, and is an important basis for diagnosis
A high number does not always mean allergy
Test results need to be judged together with what actually happened after eating in the past. It is not rare to have antibodies but no reaction when eating, and there are also cases where the test number is not high but the reaction is clear. So do not decide on your own to avoid certain foods based only on a number, and do not try eating the food without a doctor's guidance.
What to bring to your appointment
Bring your symptom records, a timeline of when you ate, previous test reports and information about medicines you take. This helps the doctor decide whether further tests are needed and how to arrange a follow-up review.
This article is for general information only and is not medical advice. Please follow your doctor's instructions.
This article is for general information only and is not medical advice. If your symptoms affect daily life, please see a doctor.