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Honey Bee Venom–Specific IgG4 Antibody, Serum — Radioallergosorbent Test (Qualitative, Deprecated)

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

A blood test that detects IgG4 antibodies directed against honey bee venom using a radioallergosorbent method. This legacy test is not commonly used today.

Quick summary

["Detectable honey bee venom–specific IgG4 indicates prior immune exposure but does not by itself diagnose a bee-sting allergy."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
26408-5
Short code
Deprecated Honey bee IgG4 RAST Ql
Synonyms
Deprecated Honey bee IgG4 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 looks for IgG4 antibodies directed against honey bee venom in your blood. These antibodies are part of the immune system's response to exposure and can sometimes be detected after stings or during allergy immunotherapy.

Why might I need this test?

It may have been used to assess immune sensitization to honey bee venom, particularly during evaluation or monitoring of venom allergy immunotherapy. Because it is a deprecated test, newer or more commonly available allergy testing may be preferred.

How is the test performed?

A blood sample is taken and tested in the laboratory using a radioallergosorbent method to determine whether honey bee venom–specific IgG4 can be detected. The result is reported qualitatively, generally as detectable or not detectable.

How do I prepare for the test?

Fasting is usually not required for this blood test. Follow any instructions provided by the ordering clinician or laboratory, and tell the laboratory if you have recently received allergy immunotherapy.

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

Honey bee venom IgG4 antibody test

Frequently asked questions

Does a positive result mean I am allergic to honey bee venom?
No. The result shows that specific IgG4 was detected, which can reflect previous exposure or immunotherapy. It cannot diagnose a bee-sting allergy or predict the severity of a reaction by itself.
Why is this test described as deprecated?
This is a legacy radioallergosorbent test that is now used less often. Current allergy evaluation and venom-immunotherapy monitoring generally rely on other available methods and clinical assessment.
Do I need to stop taking allergy medicines before the test?
Do not stop any medication unless your clinician specifically instructs you to do so. Preparation requirements should be confirmed with the laboratory, especially if you are currently receiving venom immunotherapy.
  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