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IgE to Ragweed (Serum) - Total Immunoglobulin E Level

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

This test measures the amount of Immunoglobulin E (IgE), a type of antibody, in your blood that reacts to ragweed pollen. It helps identify if you have an allergic reaction to ragweed.

Quick summary

["This test helps diagnose ragweed allergies and guides treatment options."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
103046-9
Short code
Common ragweed (nAmb a) 1 IgE RAST
Synonyms
Common ragweed (nAmb a) 1 IgE RAST
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
10
Ref high
40
Critical range
— – 500 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
rast
CPT
84484
SNOMED
302774002
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

Why This Test Might Be Ordered

Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you experience symptoms like sneezing, itching, or a runny nose during ragweed season (typically late summer to early fall). It may also be used to confirm allergies if you have a history of reactions to ragweed or other pollen.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You may have a small needle inserted into your arm to draw blood. The process usually takes a few minutes, and you can resume normal activities afterward.

What the Test Results Mean

Higher IgE levels to ragweed suggest an allergic reaction. While elevated levels can indicate sensitivity, they do not always confirm an allergy. Results are used alongside clinical symptoms and other tests for diagnosis.

Common Symptoms of Ragweed Allergy

Symptoms may include seasonal allergies such as itchy or watery eyes, sneezing, a runny nose, itchy throat or mouth, or skin rashes. Severe reactions can rarely cause difficulty breathing or swelling.

Reference range

Adult: 10-40 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.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Ragweed IgE

Frequently asked questions

What does elevated IgE to ragweed mean?
Elevated IgE levels to ragweed may indicate an allergic reaction to ragweed pollen. However, these levels alone do not confirm an allergy. Your healthcare provider will consider symptoms, medical history, and possibly additional allergy testing to diagnose ragweed allergy.
Can this test be used to predict future allergies?
This test can help identify if you are sensitive to ragweed pollen but does not predict future allergy development. Allergies are diagnosed based on symptoms, exposure history, and sometimes further testing.
How often should I get this test?
The frequency of testing depends on your symptoms and healthcare provider’s recommendations. If you have ragweed allergies, retesting may be suggested annually or as needed to monitor symptoms and treatment responses.
  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