Bermudagrassiggqn

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

This blood test measures IgG antibodies against Bermuda grass to help identify potential sensitivities or past exposure.

Quick summary

{"Measures IgG antibodies specific to Bermuda grass in your blood","Helps evaluate exposure history or sensitivity to Bermuda grass allergens","Sample is collected via routine blood draw","Results indicate immune response but may not directly diagnose active allergy","Results are reported as Units/volume in serum"}

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC: 7353-6
Short code: BERMGIGG
Synonyms: Bermuda grass IgG Qn
Category: chemistry
Sample: serum
Container: Red-top serum tube or serum separator tube (SST)
Units: N/A
Ref low: 0.35
Ref high: 0.7
Fasting: false
Population: adult
Sex: all
Age range: 18–65 years
Method: Immunoassay (Fluorescent Enzyme Immunoassay or Chemiluminescent Immunoassay)
CPT: 86001
SNOMED: 416780008
Specimen volume: 1-2 mL of serum
Stability: Stable for 7 days at 2-8°C; for longer storage, freeze 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: 24–72 hours
Order: routine

What is this test?

The Bermuda Grass IgG Antibody test is a laboratory blood test that measures the level of Immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies specifically targeted against Bermuda grass (Cynodon dactylon) in your serum. IgG antibodies are the most common antibodies in your blood and play a crucial role in your immune system's memory and defense mechanisms.

Why is it ordered?

This test may be ordered to help evaluate a patient's exposure history to Bermuda grass, one of the most common warm-season grasses found in southern United States, Australia, and other warm climates. It may also be used in conjunction with other tests (such as IgE testing) to provide a more complete picture of the immune response to environmental allergens. Healthcare providers may use this information to understand potential sensitivities in patients experiencing respiratory symptoms, skin reactions, or other conditions that might be related to environmental exposures.

How is the test performed?

A healthcare professional will collect a small sample of blood from a vein in your arm using a needle. This sample is then sent to a laboratory where it is analyzed using specialized immunoassay techniques to detect and quantify the Bermuda grass-specific IgG antibodies. The results are typically reported as Units per volume (U/mL) in serum.

Understanding your results

Results are reported as Units/volume in serum. Higher levels of Bermuda grass-specific IgG antibodies may indicate previous exposure to Bermuda grass or a sensitivity to this allergen. However, it is important to note that the presence of IgG antibodies does not necessarily mean you have an active allergy. IgG antibodies typically reflect long-term immune memory and past exposure rather than immediate allergic reactions, which are mediated by IgE antibodies. Your healthcare provider will interpret your results in the context of your symptoms, medical history, and other test findings.

Reference range

Reference range varies by laboratory and assay method; generally reported as negative (<0.35 kU/L), equivocal (0.35-0.70 kU/L), or positive (>0.70 kU/L). Results may also be reported in ug/mL or class-based scoring (Class 0-6).N/A

Specimen: serum

No special preparation required. Patient should inform clinician of any current antihistamine or corticosteroid use, as these may affect IgG 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, fasting is not typically required for this blood test. You can eat and drink normally before the sample collection. However, always follow any specific instructions provided by your healthcare provider.

What does a high IgG result mean?

A high level of Bermuda grass-specific IgG antibodies typically indicates that your immune system has been exposed to Bermuda grass and has produced antibodies in response. This could mean you have had significant exposure to Bermuda grass in the past. However, high IgG levels do not necessarily mean you have an active allergy. Your healthcare provider will help explain what your specific results mean for your health.

Is this the same as an allergy skin test?

No, this is a blood test, not a skin test. This test measures IgG antibodies, while standard allergy skin tests typically measure IgE-mediated reactions (which cause immediate allergic responses). This IgG test provides different information about your immune response to Bermuda grass.

How long does it take to get results?

The turnaround time varies by laboratory, but results are typically available within a few days to a week after the blood sample is collected. Your healthcare provider's office will inform you when your results are ready.

Do I need to stop taking allergy medications before this test?

Unlike skin prick tests, blood tests for IgG antibodies are not affected by most allergy medications, including antihistamines, nasal sprays, or eye drops. You should continue to take your regular medications as prescribed unless your healthcare provider specifically instructs you otherwise.

Sources

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