Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus-specific IgE (serum/plasma)
This test measures your immune system’s response to a common indoor allergen found in house dust mites, which can trigger allergic reactions.
["Helps diagnose allergies caused by dust mites."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 96278-7
- Short code
- D pteronyss (rDer p) 23 IgE Qn
- Synonyms
- D pteronyss (rDer p) 23 IgE Qn
- Category
- coagulation
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0.8
- Ref high
- 1.2
- Critical range
- — – 5 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 85610
- SNOMED
- 396252006
- 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 This Test Measures
IgE (Immunoglobulin E) is a protein produced by your immune system in response to allergens. When your body detects allergens like *Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus* (a dust mite), it may produce higher levels of IgE to try to protect you. This test specifically looks for IgE antibodies directed against this allergen.
Why It’s Done
Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms like sneezing, itchy eyes, or a runny nose that occur after being exposed to dust mites, especially if other allergy tests are negative or if you live in an environment with high mite exposure.
Common Uses
This test is often used to confirm allergies to dust mites, which are common triggers for allergic rhinitis (hay fever) and asthma. It can also help guide treatment decisions, such as allergy immunotherapy (allergy shots).
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You may have a blood sample drawn from your arm, or if testing saliva is used, you may rinse your mouth with water beforehand.
Reference range
INR: 0.8-1.2 (warfarin: 2.0-3.0)N/A
Inform your healthcare provider if you are taking blood thinners. No special preparation required.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
This test evaluates your immune system’s sensitivity to *Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus*, an allergen found in house dust. Elevated levels of IgE to this allergen suggest an allergic reaction may occur upon exposure. Results can help confirm a diagnosis of mite-related allergies and guide management strategies, such as reducing allergen exposure or allergy treatments.
Short name
IgE to Dust Mite
Frequently asked questions
What does a high or low IgE level mean?
Can I take allergy medications before this test?
How long does it take to get results?
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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy