Cow Milk Protein Allergy Immunoassay (IgE Antibody to Cow Milk Proteins)
This test measures the level of Immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies in your blood that may react to cow’s milk proteins. It helps identify if you have an allergic reaction to these proteins.
["IgE antibodies to cow milk can indicate a potential allergy requiring further evaluation."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 64020-1
- Short code
- Cow milk type PhenX
- Synonyms
- Cow milk type PhenX
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- phenx
- 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, experience symptoms like hives, swelling, difficulty breathing, or digestive issues after consuming cow’s milk products, or if you have a history of allergic reactions to dairy.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You may have blood drawn from a vein in your arm. If you’re taking antihistamines or other allergy medications, let your provider know as they may affect test results.
What the Test Results Mean
A positive result suggests elevated IgE antibodies to cow milk proteins, which may indicate an allergy. However, further testing (like skin prick tests or elimination diets) may be needed to confirm the diagnosis and guide treatment.
Common Symptoms Linked to Cow Milk Allergy
Symptoms can range from mild (itchy skin, stomach pain) to severe (anaphylaxis, difficulty breathing). If you experience these symptoms after consuming cow’s milk, consult your doctor immediately.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Cow Milk IgE Test
Frequently asked questions
This test is primarily used to screen for cow’s milk protein allergy in individuals with suspected reactions. While IgE testing is useful, it’s not definitive and often combined with other diagnostic methods for accurate diagnosis.
Can I eat cow’s milk if my IgE test is positive? If your IgE test is positive, you may still need to avoid cow’s milk products to prevent allergic reactions. Consult your doctor or allergist for personalized advice based on your test results and symptoms.
Does this test cover all types of cow’s milk proteins? This test measures IgE antibodies to cow’s milk proteins in general. Some allergies may be specific to certain proteins (like casein or whey), so your doctor may recommend targeted testing if needed.
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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.
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