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Wheat Bran-Specific IgE Antibody, Qualitative (RAST) — Deprecated

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

A qualitative blood test that detects IgE antibodies to wheat bran, which may indicate sensitization to wheat.

Quick summary

["A positive result suggests a possible wheat allergy, but it must be interpreted alongside symptoms and medical evaluation."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
21123-5
Short code
Deprecated Wheat Bran IgE RAST Ql
Synonyms
Deprecated Wheat Bran 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 is a RAST-style test that looks for wheat bran-specific IgE antibodies in blood. IgE is an immune-system protein that can react to a suspected allergen. This older test is considered deprecated and may have been replaced by other allergen-specific IgE testing methods.

Why might I need this test?

It may be used to help evaluate an immediate allergic reaction, such as hives, swelling, wheezing, or digestive symptoms after eating wheat or wheat-containing products. Testing may also be considered when the relationship between symptoms and wheat is unclear.

How is the test performed?

A blood sample is collected, and the laboratory uses a RAST-type method to determine whether wheat bran-specific IgE is detectable. The result is reported as positive or negative rather than as a specific concentration.

How do I prepare for the test?

No special preparation is usually required. Tell your clinician about any allergy medicines, because antihistamines or other treatments may sometimes affect allergy-test results; do not stop prescribed medication without medical advice.

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

Wheat bran IgE (RAST)

Frequently asked questions

Does a positive result mean I have a wheat allergy?
It means wheat bran-specific IgE was detected, which supports possible sensitization. A clinician must correlate this result with your symptoms and medical history to determine whether you have a clinically significant allergy.
Why is this test described as deprecated?
This is an older RAST-style testing format that is no longer generally preferred. Current allergy evaluation may use other standardized methods for allergen-specific IgE.
Can I take allergy medicine before this test?
Some medicines can influence allergy-test results, especially antihistamines. Ask your clinician whether to hold any medication before testing, and do not stop prescribed medicines without instructions.
  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