Cow's Milk-Specific IgE Antibody, 12-Month Phenotype
Measures IgE antibodies directed against cow's milk proteins to help evaluate a possible milk allergy around 12 months of age.
["A positive result supports cow's milk sensitization but must be interpreted with symptoms and medical history."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 61559-1
- Short code
- How often skim milk in 12Mo PhenX
- Synonyms
- How often skim milk in 12Mo PhenX
- Category
- liver
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- phenx
- 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 cow's milk proteins. It may be used as part of an evaluation for cow's milk allergy in a child around 12 months of age.
Why might I need this test?
It may be ordered when a child has symptoms such as hives, swelling, vomiting, abdominal discomfort, wheezing, or eczema that could be related to cow's milk. The result helps assess whether the immune system is sensitized to milk proteins.
How is the test performed?
A blood sample is analyzed in a laboratory for allergen-specific IgE using an immunoassay-based method. The laboratory report identifies the type or amount of antibody detected.
How do I prepare for the test?
No special preparation is usually required. Continue prescribed diets and medications unless your clinician gives different instructions, and tell the healthcare provider about recent allergic reactions, eczema, or other illnesses.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Detectable cow's milk-specific IgE indicates immune sensitization to milk proteins and may support a diagnosis of IgE-mediated cow's milk allergy. Results must be interpreted alongside symptoms, growth, medical history, and sometimes oral food challenge because sensitization does not always mean clinically significant allergy. Antibody levels can also change with age, particularly during the first few years of life.
Short name
Cow's milk-specific IgE
Frequently asked questions
Does a positive result mean my child is allergic to milk?
Can my child continue eating milk while waiting for the result?
Why is age important when interpreting this test?
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