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Cobalt-Specific IgE, Serum — Arbitrary Concentration

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 17, 2026

A blood test that measures IgE antibodies directed against cobalt, which can help evaluate possible cobalt sensitization.

Quick summary

["An elevated result suggests the immune system has reacted to cobalt, but it must be interpreted alongside symptoms and other allergy tests."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 17, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
104862-8
Short code
Cobalt IgE Ser-aCnc
Synonyms
Cobalt IgE Ser-aCnc
Category
liver
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
7
Ref high
56
Critical range
— – 500 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
84484
SNOMED
302773008
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 blood test measures cobalt-specific IgE antibodies. These antibodies are part of the immune system's response to a substance and may be produced after exposure to cobalt.

Why might I need this test?

Your clinician may order this test if you have dermatitis, hives, swelling, or respiratory symptoms associated with jewelry, metal implants, tattoos, or workplace exposure to cobalt.

How is the test performed?

A blood sample is collected and analyzed in a laboratory to measure the amount of cobalt-specific IgE present.

How do I prepare for the test?

Fasting is generally not required. Tell your clinician about recent cobalt exposure, symptoms, allergies, and any immunosuppressive medicines because these details may affect interpretation.

Reference range

Adult males: 7-56 U/L; Adult females: 7-43 U/LN/A

Specimen: serum

No special preparation required. Avoid fatty meals before the test if possible.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

A detectable or elevated cobalt-specific IgE level suggests immune sensitization to cobalt. This may support a diagnosis of contact allergy or another cobalt-related reaction when it matches your exposure history and symptoms, but the result alone does not confirm that cobalt is causing the symptoms.

Short name

Cobalt-Specific IgE

Frequently asked questions

What does a positive cobalt-specific IgE result mean?
It indicates that your immune system has developed antibodies against cobalt. Your clinician will interpret this result together with your symptoms, exposure history, and other allergy tests.
Is this the same as a cobalt patch test?
No. This test measures cobalt-specific IgE in blood, while a patch test is a skin procedure used mainly to identify contact allergy to cobalt. The two tests evaluate different aspects of the immune response.
Can I stop medicines before this test?
Do not stop prescribed medicines unless your clinician advises you to. Some medicines that suppress the immune system can affect antibody test results, so inform your clinician about all medicines and supplements you use.
  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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy