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Bermudagrassbasobndabqn

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 15, 2026

This test measures histamine release in your blood when exposed to Bermuda grass allergens to help diagnose grass allergies.

Quick summary

{"Measures histamine release triggered by Bermuda grass allergens","Helps diagnose Bermuda grass pollen allergy","Requires a blood sample drawn from your arm","Results help guide treatment and avoidance strategies"}

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 15, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
7354-4
Short code
BERMHR
Synonyms
Bermuda grass BasoBnd Ab Qn
Category
chemistry
Sample
whole-blood
Container
Sodium heparin (green-top) tube
Units
N/A
Ref low
0
Ref high
10
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
≥ 3 years
Method
Flow cytometry with basophil activation test (BAT) or histamine release assay (HRA)
CPT
86003
SNOMED
409065008
Specimen volume
5-10 mL whole blood
Stability
Specimen must be processed within 24 hours of collection when stored at room temperature (18-25°C). Do not refrigerate or freeze whole blood as this activates basophils.
Hemolysis max
100
Lipemia max
300
Icterus max
50
TAT
24–72 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

The Bermuda grass triggered histamine release test is a blood test that measures how your immune system reacts to Bermuda grass allergens. When you have a Bermuda grass allergy, your body produces IgE antibodies that recognize Bermuda grass pollen. When these antibodies encounter the allergen in the test, they trigger certain cells to release histamine and other chemicals. This test measures the amount of histamine released, which helps determine if you are allergic to Bermuda grass.

How is the test performed?

A healthcare professional will draw a blood sample from a vein in your arm. The blood sample is then sent to a laboratory where it is mixed with Bermuda grass allergens. If you are allergic, your blood cells will release histamine in response to the allergen. The amount of histamine released is measured and recorded.

How to prepare for the test?

No special preparation is typically required for this blood test. You can eat and drink normally before the test. However, it is important to inform your doctor about any medications you are taking, as some medications (especially antihistamines and certain allergy medications) may affect test results. Your doctor may advise you to temporarily stop certain medications before the test.

Reference range

Negative: <10% histamine release or below assay cutoff. Positive: ≥10% histamine release above negative control. Results interpreted in conjunction with clinical history and other allergy testing.N/A

Specimen: whole-blood

No fasting required. Patient should be advised to discontinue antihistamines, oral corticosteroids, and tricyclic antidepressants for 5-7 days prior to testing as these may suppress histamine release. Leukotriene receptor antagonists should be discontinued for 1-2 weeks. Patients on beta-blockers should consult physician before testing. Avoid testing during active infection or acute asthma exacerbation.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Frequently asked questions

What do the results mean?
Results are typically reported as positive or negative, or may show a level of reactivity. A positive result indicates that you have IgE antibodies to Bermuda grass and are likely allergic. However, the presence of antibodies alone does not always mean you will experience symptoms when exposed to Bermuda grass. Your doctor will interpret the results in context with your clinical symptoms and medical history.
Is this test safe?
Yes, this blood test is very safe. The main risks are minimal and include slight pain or bruising at the needle site, and in rare cases, infection or excessive bleeding. Unlike skin prick tests, this test does not expose you to allergens directly, so there is no risk of triggering an allergic reaction during the test.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are usually available within a few days to a week, depending on the laboratory. Your doctor will contact you with the results and discuss what they mean for your health.
Do I need to avoid Bermuda grass if I have a positive result?
If you test positive for Bermuda grass allergy, your doctor may recommend strategies to reduce exposure, such as keeping windows closed during peak pollen seasons, using air filters, and washing hands and clothes after outdoor activities. However, complete avoidance is often impractical, so treatment options like medications or immunotherapy may be recommended.
  1. 1
    American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology - Allergy TestingSource
  2. 2
    Mayo Clinic - Allergy skin testsSource

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 15, 2026. · Read our editorial policy