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Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus (Der p 2) Specific IgE, Serum — RAST, Qualitative

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

A qualitative blood test that detects IgE antibodies to Der p 2, a major allergen in the house dust mite Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus.

Quick summary

["A positive result indicates an immune sensitization to the Der p 2 house dust mite allergen."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
81973-0
Short code
Deprecated D pteronyss (rDer p) 2 IgE RAST Ql
Synonyms
Deprecated D pteronyss (rDer p) 2 IgE RAST Ql
Category
liver
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
10
Ref high
40
Critical range
— – 5 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 looks for allergen-specific IgE antibodies against Der p 2, a protein found in house dust mites. It is performed on serum using a qualitative RAST method, meaning the result is reported as positive or negative.

Why might I need this test?

Your clinician may order this test when evaluating possible dust mite allergy, especially if you have wheezing, asthma, chronic cough, nasal congestion, or eczema that seems related to exposure to dust.

How is the test performed?

A blood sample is collected, and the serum is tested for IgE directed against Der p 2. The laboratory reports whether antibodies were detected; this test does not measure the severity of an allergic reaction.

How do I prepare for the test?

No special preparation is usually required. Tell your clinician about any medicines you take, including antihistamines, because medications and recent allergic symptoms may affect how the results are interpreted.

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

House Dust Mite Der p 2-Specific IgE

Frequently asked questions

Does a positive result mean I am allergic to dust mites?
It indicates sensitization to Der p 2, but a positive result is not always the sole cause of symptoms. Your clinician will interpret it alongside your symptoms, environment, and other allergy tests.
What are the symptoms of dust mite allergy?
Possible symptoms include sneezing, runny or congested nose, itchy or watery eyes, wheezing, cough, or worsening asthma. Some people also experience skin symptoms such as eczema.
Can I stop taking allergy medicine before this test?
Do not stop prescribed medicines without speaking with your clinician. Antihistamines and some other treatments may influence allergy testing, so your clinician should tell you whether any medication changes are needed.
  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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy