Maltose-Binding Protein-Specific IgE (RAST), Qualitative
A blood-based allergy test that checks for IgE antibodies directed against maltose-binding protein, a food protein.
["Detecting maltose-binding protein–specific IgE can support a diagnosis of allergy sensitization."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 91121-4
- Short code
- Deprecated Maltose BP IgE RAST Ql
- Synonyms
- Deprecated Maltose BP IgE RAST Ql
- Category
- liver
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 7
- Ref high
- 56
- Critical range
- — – 500 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 84484
- SNOMED
- 302773008
- 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 IgE antibodies directed against maltose-binding protein, a food protein. It is a RAST-style, qualitative allergen-specific IgE test and is also known as a legacy or deprecated test.
Why might I need this test?
This test may be considered when a person has symptoms such as hives, swelling, wheezing, or digestive discomfort after eating a food that may contain maltose-binding protein. Results are reviewed with the food history and other allergy testing.
How is the test performed?
A blood sample is tested for IgE antibodies to maltose-binding protein. The laboratory reports whether antibody reactivity is detected, and the result is interpreted together with symptoms and exposure history.
How do I prepare for the test?
This blood test generally requires no special preparation. Follow the laboratory’s instructions and tell your clinician about any medicines or recent allergic reactions before the test.
Reference range
Adult males: 7-56 U/L; Adult females: 7-43 U/LN/A
No special preparation required. Avoid fatty meals before the test if possible.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Detectable IgE to maltose-binding protein supports the possibility of an immediate allergy to the relevant food. A positive result does not by itself prove that the person will have a reaction, so it must be interpreted with symptoms and exposure history. If no specific IgE is detected, allergy remains less likely but may not be completely excluded.
Short name
Maltose-Binding Protein IgE
Frequently asked questions
Does a positive result mean I am allergic?
What symptoms can this test help evaluate?
Why is this test described as deprecated?
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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy