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Ovalbumin-Specific IgE Antibody, Qualitative (Deprecated)

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

A qualitative blood test that detects IgE antibodies to ovalbumin, a major egg-white protein, to help assess possible egg allergy.

Quick summary

["A positive result suggests sensitization to ovalbumin but does not by itself confirm a clinical egg allergy."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
15897-2
Short code
Deprecated Ovalb IgE RAST Ql
Synonyms
Deprecated Ovalb 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 looks for IgE antibodies directed against ovalbumin, a major protein in egg white. A qualitative result is generally reported as detected or not detected rather than as a specific concentration.

Why might I need this test?

It may be used to evaluate an immune response to egg proteins when symptoms such as hives, swelling, wheezing, or digestive reactions occur after eating eggs. Results are considered together with your symptoms, exposure history, and other allergy evaluations.

How is the test performed?

A blood sample is analyzed in the laboratory to determine whether ovalbumin-specific IgE is present. The qualitative report indicates whether the antibody was detected.

How do I prepare for the test?

No special preparation is usually required unless your healthcare professional gives different instructions. Tell the ordering clinician about your symptoms, possible egg reactions, and all medications or supplements you are using.

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

Ovalbumin-specific IgE

Frequently asked questions

What does a positive result mean?
It means your immune system has produced detectable IgE antibodies to ovalbumin. This indicates sensitization but does not necessarily mean you will have a reaction when eating eggs.
Does a positive result mean I must avoid all eggs?
Not necessarily. Your clinician should interpret the result with your reaction history and may recommend an allergy specialist evaluation or supervised food challenge when appropriate.
Why is this test marked as deprecated?
The test designation indicates that it is no longer the preferred or current version. Ask your healthcare professional about a standardized ovalbumin or food-allergen IgE test instead.
  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