Skip to content

Common Ragweed (Amb a 1) Allergen-Specific IgE Antibody, Qualitative

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

This blood test checks for IgE antibodies directed against common ragweed, helping assess whether ragweed allergy sensitization is present.

Quick summary

["A positive result suggests an immune sensitization to common ragweed but must be interpreted with allergy symptoms and medical history."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
81965-6
Short code
Deprecated Common ragweed (nAmb a) 1 IgE RAST Ql
Synonyms
Deprecated Common ragweed (nAmb a) 1 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 test measures allergen-specific IgE antibodies against common ragweed, including the Amb a 1 allergen component. It is used to help identify sensitization associated with allergy symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes.

Why might I need this test?

Your clinician may order this test if you have symptoms that occur during the ragweed pollen season or after exposure to ragweed. It can help distinguish pollen-related allergy from other causes of similar symptoms.

How is the test performed?

A blood sample is analyzed in a laboratory for IgE antibodies specific to common ragweed. The result is reported as positive or negative, with additional laboratory reporting when appropriate.

How do I prepare for the test?

Fasting is generally not required for this blood test. Tell your clinician about any medicines you take, and follow the laboratory’s instructions if a separate allergy evaluation is also planned.

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

Common ragweed-specific IgE

Frequently asked questions

Does a positive result mean I have a ragweed allergy?
It indicates ragweed sensitization, but a positive result alone cannot confirm that ragweed causes your symptoms. Your clinician will interpret it with your history and examination.
Can I have a ragweed allergy with a negative result?
Yes. A negative result makes allergy to the tested ragweed component less likely, but it does not exclude every type of ragweed allergy or allergy to another substance.
Does the test predict how severe my allergy will be?
No. This test does not reliably predict the severity of allergic symptoms or the risk of a serious reaction, so those issues require clinical assessment.
  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