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Anisakis-Specific IgE Antibody, Radioallergosorbent (RAST) Test, Qualitative (Deprecated)

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

A blood test that detects IgE antibodies to Anisakis, a fish-borne parasite. It may help evaluate allergic reactions after eating raw or undercooked fish.

Quick summary

["A positive result suggests an immune allergy to Anisakis parasite proteins but does not by itself confirm an active infestation."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
15535-8
Short code
Deprecated Anisakis IgE RAST Ql
Synonyms
Deprecated Anisakis IgE RAST Ql
Category
liver
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
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

What is this test?

This qualitative blood test looks for IgE antibodies directed against Anisakis proteins. Anisakis is a parasitic worm that can be acquired by eating raw or undercooked fish.

Why might I need this test?

The test may be used when someone develops hives, itching, swelling, wheezing, or another allergic reaction after eating fish. It can also help investigate unexplained IgE-mediated allergic symptoms associated with fish exposure.

How is the test performed?

A blood sample is analyzed for Anisakis-specific IgE using an older radioallergosorbent, or RAST, method. Because this test is deprecated, the laboratory may use a newer allergen-specific IgE assay instead.

How do I prepare for the test?

Fasting is generally not required. Tell your clinician about the timing of your symptoms, the types of fish you ate, and whether they were raw or undercooked.

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.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Anisakis IgE Antibody

Frequently asked questions

Does a positive result mean I currently have Anisakis infection?
No. IgE antibodies can remain detectable after exposure or an infection has resolved, so the result must be interpreted with symptoms, dietary history, and other clinical findings.
Can I eat fish if the result is positive?
Ask an allergist or your clinician before eating fish again, especially if you have had hives, swelling, wheezing, or other allergic symptoms. Avoiding the suspected food may be recommended until you receive guidance.
Why is this test listed as deprecated?
It is an older testing method that may no longer be routinely available. A current laboratory may use a different validated assay for Anisakis-specific IgE.
  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