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Alpha-Lactalbumin IgG — Qualitative

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This qualitative blood test checks for IgG antibodies to alpha-lactalbumin, a milk protein, which may indicate dietary exposure or sensitization.

Quick summary

["Detected alpha-lactalbumin IgG may reflect prior exposure to milk protein but does not by itself diagnose a milk allergy."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
11176-5
Short code
A-Lactalb IgG Qn
Synonyms
A-Lactalb IgG Qn
Category
liver
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
82784
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

This test looks for alpha-lactalbumin IgG, an antibody directed against alpha-lactalbumin, in a blood sample. Alpha-lactalbumin is a protein found in milk.

Why might I need this test?

It may be ordered to assess immune exposure to milk proteins, particularly when a history of food-related symptoms or possible milk sensitivity is being evaluated.

How is the test performed?

A blood sample is analyzed using laboratory antibody-testing methods. Because this is a qualitative test, the result is generally reported as detected or not detected.

How do I prepare for the test?

No special preparation is usually required. Follow any instructions from your healthcare professional, and tell the laboratory if you have recently changed your diet or consumed milk products.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Detectable alpha-lactalbumin IgG may indicate that the immune system has encountered this milk protein. It can reflect dietary exposure or sensitization, but IgG results do not alone confirm a clinical milk allergy or predict the severity of symptoms. Results should be interpreted with symptoms, dietary history, and other allergy testing.

Short name

Alpha-Lactalbumin IgG

Frequently asked questions

Does a positive result mean I have a milk allergy?
No. A positive result shows detectable alpha-lactalbumin IgG, which may reflect prior exposure or sensitization rather than an allergy. A clinician should interpret it alongside your symptoms and medical history.
What is alpha-lactalbumin?
Alpha-lactalbumin is a whey protein found in cow's milk and some other dairy products. It is one of the milk proteins that can trigger immune reactions in susceptible people.
Do I need to avoid dairy if this test is positive?
Do not change your diet based on this result alone. Discuss the findings with your healthcare professional, especially if you have digestive, skin, respiratory, or other symptoms after eating milk products.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy