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Cow’s Milk Protein Immunoassay (Serum/Plasma)

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

This test measures the presence of cow’s milk proteins in your blood, often used to check for allergies or sensitivity to dairy products.

Quick summary

["Helps identify if cow’s milk proteins affect your body."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
102871-1
Short code
Cow Milk IgE RAST
Synonyms
Cow Milk 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 suspect a cow’s milk allergy, intolerance, or related digestive issues. It can also be used in research or specialized diagnostic settings to monitor protein exposure.

How the Test Works

A small blood sample is taken and analyzed using an immunoassay method to detect cow’s milk proteins. This method detects specific antibodies or proteins linked to dairy exposure, though it does not measure the exact amount of milk proteins in your system.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed unless instructed by your provider. Wear comfortable clothing for the blood draw, and bring any medications or allergy information to share with your healthcare team.

What the Results Mean

Results may indicate exposure to cow’s milk proteins, but they do not confirm a clinical allergy or intolerance. Interpretation depends on clinical context, such as symptoms or other test results.

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

Cow Milk Protein Test

Frequently asked questions

What Does This Test Measure?
This test detects the presence of cow’s milk proteins in your blood, often through an antibody-based assay. It is not a diagnostic test for allergy but may be used in research or specialized settings to assess exposure.
What Are Normal Results?
There are no standard reference ranges for this specific immunoassay due to its specialized use. Results are evaluated in the context of your clinical situation, such as symptoms or other diagnostic findings.
How Often Should I Get This Test?
The frequency depends on your healthcare provider’s recommendations. This test may be part of a broader evaluation for allergies, research studies, or monitoring specific conditions related to dairy exposure.
  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