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Bahiagrassiggmcnc

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

This blood test measures IgG antibodies against Bahia grass to help identify if you have been exposed to this common allergen.

Quick summary

{"A simple blood test that checks for IgG antibodies to Bahia grass","Helps detect past exposure or sensitivity to Bahia grass pollen","Sample is collected from a vein in your arm","Results help your healthcare provider assess allergic conditions","No special preparation is typically needed before the test"}

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
63156-4
Short code
BAHIAIgG
Synonyms
Bahia grass IgG-mCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Serum separator tube (SST, tiger-top) or red-top (no additive) vacutainer tube
Units
N/A
Ref low
7
Ref high
10
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
Immunoassay (e.g., ELISA, FEIA, or chemiluminescent immunoassay) for quantitative detection of allergen-specific IgG antibodies to Bahia grass (Paspalum notatum) pollen
CPT
86001
SNOMED
395143008
Specimen volume
0.5-1 mL serum (minimum 0.3 mL)
Stability
Serum stable at room temperature for 8 hours, refrigerated (2-8°C) for 7 days, frozen at -20°C or below for up to 30 days. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
24–96 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

The Bahia Grass IgG Antibody test is a blood test that measures the level of Immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies specific to Bahia grass (Paspalum notatum) in your blood. Bahia grass is a common warm-season grass found in many parts of the southern United States and other warm climates. It produces pollen that can cause allergic reactions in some people.

How is the test performed?

A healthcare professional will draw a small blood sample from a vein in your arm using a needle. The blood sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis. The lab will measure the amount of IgG antibodies specifically targeting Bahia grass antigens. Results are typically reported as positive or negative, or may include a numerical value indicating the antibody concentration.

What do the results mean?

A positive result indicates that IgG antibodies to Bahia grass were detected in your blood, suggesting that your immune system has been exposed to Bahia grass pollen. It's important to note that the presence of IgG antibodies typically indicates exposure rather than an active allergic reaction. Your healthcare provider will interpret these results in combination with your symptoms, medical history, and possibly other allergy tests to determine if Bahia grass is contributing to your allergic symptoms.

Are there any risks?

The risks associated with this test are minimal and similar to any routine blood draw. You may experience slight pain, bruising, or bleeding at the injection site. In rare cases, fainting, infection, or excessive bleeding may occur. These risks are generally low and the procedure is considered very safe.

Reference range

Reference values are laboratory-specific and method-dependent. Results are typically reported as negative, borderline, or positive with quantitative mass/volume values. Generally, <7 mg/L or corresponding unit equivalent is considered negative; 7-10 mg/L borderline; >10 mg/L positive (varies by assay manufacturer). Clinically, results should be interpreted alongside patient history and IgE testing.N/A

Specimen: serum

No special preparation required. Fasting is not necessary. Patients should inform their healthcare provider of any medications (e.g., antihistamines, corticosteroids, immunosuppressants) or recent immunotherapy, as these may influence antibody levels.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to fast before this test?
No special preparation or fasting is typically required for this blood test. You can eat and drink normally before having your blood drawn unless your healthcare provider instructs otherwise.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are usually available within a few days to a week, depending on the laboratory. Your healthcare provider's office will contact you with the results or discuss them at your follow-up appointment.
What is the difference between IgG and IgE testing for allergies?
IgE antibodies are associated with immediate allergic reactions and are the primary markers tested for diagnosing active allergic conditions. IgG antibodies typically indicate past exposure or delayed immune responses. While IgG testing can provide information about sensitization, it is generally not used alone to diagnose allergies. Your healthcare provider will determine which test(s) are most appropriate for your situation.
Can this test diagnose a grass allergy?
This test detects IgG antibodies to Bahia grass, which indicates exposure or sensitization. To confirm a clinical allergy, your healthcare provider may combine these results with other tests (like IgE testing or skin prick tests) and consider your symptoms. A positive IgG result alone does not necessarily mean you have an active allergy.
What should I do if my results are positive?
If your test shows elevated IgG antibodies to Bahia grass, discuss the results with your healthcare provider. They will help you understand what this means for your health and may recommend strategies to manage potential allergies, such as avoiding exposure, using medications, or considering allergy immunotherapy.
  1. 1
    Mayo Clinic - Allergy blood testsSource
  2. 2
    American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology - Understanding Allergy TestingSource
  3. 3
    MedlinePlus - Allergy TestingSource

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