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Cockatiel Feather IgE Antibody and Total IgE Blood Test

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

This blood test measures specific IgE antibodies to cockatiel feathers along with your total IgE level to help find out whether your symptoms are caused by an allergy to cockatiel birds or their feathers.

Quick summary

{"Measures IgE antibodies specific to cockatiel feathers","Helps diagnose allergy to pet birds","Collected via blood sample","Results indicate allergic sensitivity level","Used for respiratory allergy evaluation"}

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
61349-7
Short code
CGFEIGE
Synonyms
Cockatiel Feather IgE/IgE total %
Category
cardiac
Sample
serum
Container
Serum separator tube (SST) or plain red top tube
Units
N/A
Ref low
25
Ref high
200
Critical range
— – 10000 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
0–120 years
Method
Immunoassay (Chemiluminescence or ELISA)
CPT
86003
SNOMED
424153009
Specimen volume
1.0-2.0 mL of serum
Stability
Room temperature: 24 hours; Refrigerated (2-8°C): 7 days; Frozen (-20°C or below): 30 days. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
Hemolysis max
50
Lipemia max
200
Icterus max
20
TAT
24–72 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

The Cockatiel Feather IgE Ab/IgE Total test is a blood test that measures two things: (1) specific IgE antibodies to cockatiel feathers, and (2) total IgE level in your blood. IgE (Immunoglobulin E) is an antibody that your immune system produces when you have an allergic reaction. This test helps determine if you are allergic to cockatiel birds or their feathers.

How is the test performed?

A healthcare professional will draw a small blood sample from a vein in your arm. The blood is then sent to a laboratory where it is analyzed for cockatiel feather-specific IgE antibodies and total IgE levels. No special preparation is typically required, though your doctor may ask you to avoid certain medications before the test.

What do the results mean?

Results are usually reported as a numerical value or class (0-6) indicating the level of IgE antibodies. A higher value or class suggests a stronger allergic sensitivity to cockatiel feathers. Your doctor will interpret these results along with your symptoms and medical history to confirm or rule out a cockatiel feather allergy.

Reference range

NCBI: CK 25-200 U/LN/A

Specimen: serum

No fasting required. No discontinuation of antihistamines or antihistamine medications is typically required for IgE testing, though some specialists may recommend stopping certain medications. Inform the laboratory of any recent allergen exposures or immunotherapy treatments.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

This test is primarily used to diagnose bird-related allergies, including allergic rhinitis (hay fever), allergic asthma, and hypersensitivity pneumonitis. It is particularly useful for patients who own pet cockatiels or are frequently exposed to cockatiels and experience respiratory symptoms such as sneezing, wheezing, shortness of breath, or nasal congestion. Positive results help confirm the diagnosis and guide treatment, including avoidance strategies and immunotherapy options.

Frequently asked questions

Why is this test ordered if I don't own a cockatiel?
You may be exposed to cockatiel feathers in other settings, such as pet stores, friend's homes, or environments where birds are kept. The test helps identify if cockatiel feathers are causing your allergic symptoms.
Is this test painful?
The test involves a routine blood draw, which may cause brief discomfort or a slight pinch. The procedure is quick and generally well-tolerated.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are typically available within a few days to a week, depending on the laboratory.
Do I need to stop taking allergy medications before the test?
Consult your doctor before stopping any medications. Some antihistamines and steroids may affect test results, but you should not stop prescribed medications without medical advice.
What happens if the test is positive?
A positive result indicates you have IgE antibodies to cockatiel feathers, confirming an allergy. Your doctor will discuss treatment options, which may include avoiding exposure, using allergy medications, or considering allergen immunotherapy.
  1. 1
    American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology - Pet AllergySource
  2. 2
    Mayo Clinic - AllergiesSource

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