| Test Name: | Allergen Testing |
| Epic Order Code: | See Allergen Table |
| CPT Code: | 86003 | | |
| Specimen(s) Type: | Serum | | |
| Acceptable Container(s): |  Top is red |
| Testing Schedule: | Monday-Friday |
| Turn Around Time: | STAT: NA | | |
| | Routine: 1-3 days |
| Collection Information: | No specific patient preparation is required for sample collection with the exception of samples used for testing venom or drug sensitivities. Due to the rise and fall of circulating venom and drug-specific IgE antibodies, samples for testing with venom and/or drugs should be collected no sooner than 2 to 3 weeks and no later than 6 months after an insect sting or after drug exposure. Obtain specimen by standard collection procedures. |
| Transport Information: | Deliver to lab immediately. All specimens must be signed into the laboratory. |
| Reference Clients: | If unable to deliver to the lab within 1 hour, centrifuge the specimen and remove serum from the red cells. Store and transport at 2-8° C. Specimen must be received in the lab within 5 days. If longer storage is required, store and transport the sample at -20° C for up to 30 days. |
| Causes for Rejection: | Improperly labeled, incorrect container, contaminated, insufficient quantity, incorrect/delay in transport. |
| Reference Range: | NA |
| Additional Information: | Volume of serum required for 1 allergen is 0.3 mL. For more than 1 allergen: (0.05 mL x number of allergens) + 0.25 mL dead space. |