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Southern Ragweed-Specific IgE Antibody, Qualitative

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

A blood test that checks for IgE antibodies directed against Southern ragweed, helping assess possible allergic sensitization.

Quick summary

["A positive result suggests an immune-system sensitization to Southern ragweed but does not by itself confirm a clinical allergy."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
15980-6
Short code
Deprecated Southern Ragweed IgE RAST Ql
Synonyms
Deprecated Southern Ragweed 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 allergen-specific IgE antibodies to Southern ragweed in your blood. IgE is an immune-system protein that can form in response to exposure to a particular allergen.

Why might I need this test?

Your clinician may order this test if you have sneezing, congestion, wheezing, or other symptoms around ragweed or in areas where Southern ragweed grows. It may also be used to help evaluate suspected pollen allergy.

How is the test performed?

A blood sample is collected and tested for Southern ragweed-specific IgE antibodies. The result is generally reported as positive or negative, although some laboratories may also provide a measurement or reaction category.

How do I prepare for the test?

No special preparation is usually required. Antihistamines and certain other allergy treatments may affect the interpretation of allergy testing, so tell your clinician about all medicines and supplements you are taking before the test.

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

Southern ragweed IgE

Frequently asked questions

Does a positive result mean I am allergic to Southern ragweed?
It indicates sensitization to Southern ragweed, but your clinician must correlate the result with your symptoms and other findings to determine whether you have a clinical allergy.
Can this test diagnose a ragweed allergy on its own?
No. The result is one part of an allergy evaluation and should be interpreted alongside symptoms, medical history, and possibly other allergy testing.
Should I stop taking allergy medicine before the test?
Do not stop prescribed medicines unless your clinician instructs you to. Some antihistamines can influence allergy-test results, so discuss your current treatment with the laboratory or clinician beforehand.
  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